I do not own Naruto in any way shape or form.

Hello, well now that Snow's Swirling Dragon is basically over, I decided to try my hand at an old favorite of the Naruto Universe the Empire story. I'm trying to take this in a slightly different direction but some points will remain from the formula. I'll try and put my own spin on them like I usually do. Hope you enjoy. Oh there will be evil here but not stupid evil, but ya expect some bashing.

Oh and small point, yes there will be crossovers but I'm going to avoid the obvious ones that appear in every story, I.E. people from bleach and guys like Walter from Hellsing, don't get me wrong I love the characters but honestly I'm not wanting them here as they have been done to death in these stories and I don't think I can add to them in any meaningful way. So I'm trying a few new additions to the style. The largest coming from Code Geass, cause well I really like the characters and haven't seen them in an empire story so I think it would be fun. Oh and no real geass powers, just characters for fun :P it will be explained. Also won't be doing god mode, sorry it makes it boring to write and I won't do it.

To help get an idea of a few things it helps if you have seen Naruto movies "bonds" and "Ninja Clash in the land of snow" as that helps fill in a few things. I will be going into detail but just if you need images or clearer idea that is where to look.

Pairing, well at the moment not completely sure, but after doing one harem in snow I learned I can't please everyone, so might as well write what I want. So I think I'm going back to just one, and pretty sure it's Hinata, if that's a deal breaker for you well I won't waste time trying to convince you otherwise goodbye.

Ok on with the story.

Chapter 1

"Talking"

"Thinking/Mental conversation"

"DEMON/God or the like/printed words"

"Jutsu"

-The tearful trail of the Emperor-

How long had it been going on now…an hour….two…maybe a day?

I guess it doesn't matter…

I just…I can't believe it. After everything I'm still just a fox to them…

my team…Sasuke…I brought him back…and now I'm here… Thought the blond boy as he looked down at his own mud splattered feet his orange pants already in ribbons from the fights only a day previously. He hadn't had a second set to change into at the hospital, luckily he had another black shirt to cover up the scars now decorating his chest but his orange pants were still a wreck.

The fights…

Oh…right the mission…first that big guy…hum Choji sure showed him…and then that one girl and the bone guy…I guess granny was able to help Lee after all…man and it turns out Gaara showed up…

I guess it's a good thing I brought granny back…she's pretty cool when she's not drinking. These thoughts brought the faintest of smiles to his face even as tears brimmed at the cornered of his eyes trailing down over the bandages upon his face to drip silently down to the floor even as the figures around him continued to debate, their voices growing louder with each moment as the battle over him intensified.

Everyone…we all made it back…and now…now this…

I didn't even get to say goodbye.

I….I don't want to leave them….everyone…I don't want to leave… shuddered the boy as these thoughts continued to swirl around in his mind his face contorted into a look of pain even as his body throbbed from the wounds that had only been patched hours before. As the boy's thoughts continued their assault above him upon a raised platform a blond haired woman was slamming her fist once again into the stone structure sending a web of cracks down it as she yelled again at the assembled group before her.

"I DON'T CARE IF YOU THINK IT'S TOO DANGEROUS KONOHA DOES NOT SELL OUT ONE OF OUR OWN!" roared Tsunade her brown eyes flashing dangerously as she glared around at the council before her each steadying themselves against the impressive waves of killing intent washing off of her.

"This is not a matter of selling anyone out Tsunade and you know it! Konoha has suffered too many loses after the invasion, two of that group infiltrates us without effort and drove off our elite without even straining themselves!" called and elderly looking man his spectacles face drawn into a hard look. Beside him sat his fellow an elderly woman her own brown worn with age even as she steeled herself to speak drawing the Hokage's eyes to her.

"Homura is correct Hokage-sama. The matter is simple; the boy is a target, one for an enemy we cannot match. If we try, how many do you think will die for this boy?" asked the elderly woman as Tsunade's eyes narrowed upon her.

"AND IF YOU WERE THE TARGET KOHARU?" fired back Tsunade as the elderly woman nodded replying in a firm tone.

"Then I would leave, a shinobi's life is to protect the village, if my staying, put my home and family in danger I would leave. I have taken missions that could have meant my death before Hokage-sama, if it is for Konoha I have no fear of death." Replied the elder Koharu as an angry growl drew a few eyes up to where a feral woman sat her figures digging lightly into sleeves of her shirt as she fought to keep herself in check.

"Tsume…" started Tsunade before the matriarch of the Inuzuka clan spoke her tone harsh as if trying to bit back her own words.

"Enough Hokage-sama, this isn't easy for a lot of us, but it has to be done!" spoke Tsume as Tsunade's eyes narrowed upon the woman.

"SO YOU'D SELL HIM OUT TO AKATSUKI!?" called Tsunade's as Tsume jerked her eyes away from the woman as well as the blond boy standing just before her.

"If that's what has to be done to protect the village…yes. I won't lose my clan for that….that fox." Spoke Tsume a mix of anger and self-loathing dripping from every work she spoke as flashes of her injured son flashed past her eyes. At her words Tsunade turned to the room seeing that not one of the council stood with her, not one. A few like Tsume could not meet her eyes, while others showed open contempt for the boy down below, but all were united upon this decision.

"This is not the first time a shinobi has died or given their life for the village Hokage-sama. My brother also gave his life for our safety; we ask no more of the boy than we would any other of our village. We are not killing the boy, he may survive, how is that any more a risk than any other mission?" Spoke a stoic tone belonging to Hiashi Hyuga as he nodded towards where Naruto stood.

"YOU KNOW DAMN WELL THIS ISN'T A MISSON! ONE GENIN AGAINST A GANG OF S CLASS CRIMINALS AND YOU WANT TO PRETEND SAYING IT'S A MISSION MAKES IT ALRIGHT!" snarled Tsunade as another voice spoke.

"Hokage-sama, the council is in agreement, we can't order him as a shinobi, but we can remove him from the shinobi ranks…If we do this he dies in disgrace…at least let his name be put upon the memorial stone for what he is sacrificing." Spoke Homura as he looked around the council receiving a few nods, while others simple scoffed.

"DON'T YOU DARE TRY TO ACT LIKE YOU'RE DOING THIS FOR HIM!" yelled Tsunade as above Tsume a scarred man sighed rubbing his head as he muttered to himself before speaking.

"No Hokage-sama, we're doing this for the village, what we have to do to protect our home. Every shinobi must be ready to lay down their lives for their home and their comrades. The boy is a target, one we cannot protect, one that we cannot prepare, and one that could become a bigger threat to the village if he were to stay. Jinchuuriki are dangerous enough just to have inside one's forces, and now he is a target on top of this, Hokage-sama the fox is not worth this." Finished Shikaku, as beside him Chōza Akimichi and Inoichi Yamanaka nodded in agreement with their longtime partner.

"HIS NAME IS NARUTO UZUMAKI YOU BASTARDS AND I WON'T JUST SIT BY AND LET YOU THROW HIM TO THE WOLVES!" yelled back Tsunade pointing down to Naruto, with his one arm in a sling, his body still littered with medical wrappings even as a bandaged man rose his action drawing several eyes as spoke.

"Very well Hokage-sama, the council has made its decision, Naruto Uzumaki, genin of Konoha will be officially stripped of his rank, after his chakra is sealed, and banished for no less than five years, or until our forces have returned to their full strength for the greater safety of the village." Called Danzo as the council nodded Tsunade starting to yell but stopping as she saw the boy below her stiffen at the council's decision.

"Naruto…" whispered Tsunade as the blond looked up her, his blue eyes somehow dimmer as the trails from his tears drew small damp lines down his whiskered cheeks.

"The boy will report to the council tomorrow to have the sealing performed, failure to arrive will be." Started Danzo as another voice cut him off.

"Enough! I may not be able to stop you bastards from this but I won't let you endanger him anymore!" called a white haired man as he stepped forwards glaring at Danzo who gave the figure a steady look.

As Jiraiya spoke Naruto felt a small twinge in his stomach as what sounded like a whisper in his mind started to speak. However before it could gain voice Jiraiya had already moved forwards speaking as he did.

"Jiraiya-sensei." Whispered Naruto as the toad sage gave him a small smile patting him on his head before looking back to Danzo his eyes narrowed.

"The seal is too delicate to have a novice like you messing with it." Started the sage as Danzo nodded turning fully to face the sage.

"Hai, and as Konoha's sealing expert I expect you to do the work yourself Jiraiya, now that you are here it can be done immediately." spoke Danzo as Jiraiya bit back a curse looking up to Tsunade who now looked stricken.

"Bastards…you think I'll just nod and smile while you do this." Spat Jiraiya as he laid a hand gently upon Naruto's shoulder pulling the boy closer to him. Above him the fight in Tsunade finally gave out as she slumped into her chair gazing around at the council as Danzo continued to speak.

"No Jiraiya I expect you to honor your commitment to Konoha and this council."

"This is the will of Konoha and you will follow it through." Finished Danzo as Jiraiya glared before looking away as above him Tsunade gave the room one final look before speaking her voice breaking slightly as she struggle to keep from sobbing.

"Jiraiya…come to my office…Na…naruto you as well…this council is dismissed." Finished the blond as the gathered shinobi and elders nodded pushing themselves up and slowly filing out of the room none looking down at the blond boy who stood silently beside the two sages of Konoha.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"THOSE BASTARDS!" roared Tsunade as she flung her desk into a wall smashing the wooden frame more than a foot into the solid stone, and causing an Anbu to try and dive out of their hiding spot, only to be caught by the hokage's chair that impacted the masked figures with a loud crunch. As the Anbu flopped to the office floor unconscious Naruto and Jiraiya moved a bit farther from the raging blond both fearful of getting caught up in her rage.

"SHIZUNE!" called Tsunade as her assistant standing just a foot or so behind her scanned the room before nodding.

"That was the last one lady Tsunade." Spoke the black haired woman as Tsunade smirked looking around at the wreck of an office where the five hidden Anbu now lay unconscious each "accidently hit by one of her projectiles in the course of her fit.

"Well that was effective." Chuckled Jiraiya moving over to prod one Anbu lightly with a foot before turning to see Shizune already dropping to kneel beside Naruto pulling the boy into an embrace as Tsunade focused upon the sage.

"This is not a time for jokes Jiraiya; we need to plan this out that council isn't getting there way with this. What were you thinking; if you hadn't spoken up they wouldn't have been able to seal him! That was our last hope!" spat Tsunade as Jiraiya raised his hand defensively.

"Tsunade, we both know they would have tried anyway, and Naruto would have been in even more trouble, I didn't have a choice." Called Jiraiya as he lowered his hands turning to look down at Naruto who blinked up at him.

"I'm sorry kid…it's all I could do." Spoke the sage as Naruto nodded slightly looking around to Tsunade.

"It's ok sensei…you both did everything you could…but why are they doing this?" asked Naruto in a slightly odd tone as he looked up to Tsunade who felt her own eyes brimming with tears as she moved over to the blond teen. As she reached him she pulled him close into a hug looking up to Jiraiya her eyes burring with silent rage as she spoke.

"I don't know Naruto…I don't know…they've been planning this…I don't know how long but they've been planning this…but we won't let them win…I promise you. We'll protect you Naruto, we'll train you, and we won't let the council stop us." spoke Tsunade as Naruto looked at her nodding.

"Really?" asked Naruto sadly even as a small pang went up from his gut as Tsunade nodded turning to Jiraiya before rising slowly the light from the window catching the tears now dripping down her cheeks allowing them to flash slightly in the dimness of the office.

"Jiraiya, I'm giving you a mission, you are to take Naruto outside the village, say it's for the sealing I don't care just get him out of here. Officially you'll be going on a mission to spy on the Akatsuki. Train him…keep….keep my little brother safe." Spoke Tsunade firmly as Jiraiya nodded at her.

"Won't be easy you know…keeping this quite." He replied as Tsunade gave him a small grin.

"I trust you." She whispered before kneeling down to pull Naruto into another embrace whispering apologies as Naruto returned the embrace crying softly into her arms as he did. After a time the two finally broke apart Naruto finding his emotions for some reason easy in check as he stood before her.

"Don't worry Tsunade." Spoke Jiraiya stepping forwards out of the light provided by the window to stand beside Naruto his hand dropping down to ruffle the boys blond hair. "I'll make him ready to take your chair when he gets back." Smiled Jiraiya as despite himself Naruto found himself smiling along with his sensei.

"Hai, just you wait I'll make them sorry for throwing me out!" smiled Naruto as Tsunade gave a watery smile as the two disappeared in a flutter of leaves and wind leaving Tsunade and Shizune in the destroyed remains of her office.

"He'll be alright lady Tsunade." Assured Shizune as Tsunade nodded trying to keep from letting her sadness grip her again. Slowly she moved over to a cabinet that had survived her assault pulling out a bottle as she did.

"Lady Tsunade." Started Shizune before the blonde woman cut her off with a look.

"Don't try it Shizune, I'm getting drunk and there's nothing you can do to stop me." spoke Tsunade as Shizune sighed shaking her head slightly.

"I wasn't going to…can I have some?" spoke Shizune sadly as her lady paused before pulling a pair of dishes out and tossing one to her apprentice.

"Hai, I suppose so."

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

After reporting to the Council Jiraiya and Naruto moved outside of the village soon racing through a small clearing near the Valley of the end. As the two had made their way out they passed the scarred land scape of each battlefield, dunes of sand, forests littered with weapons, while others were simply felled as if by some great scythe. Moving forwards helped somehow. The council meeting and ruling was still there but somehow it didn't hang as heavily over him since Jiraiya had arrived. His sensei Jiraiya was right after all, it was just like a long training mission…that stupid council wouldn't get there way, and who cares about them anyway. Granny Tsunade would have the village back in shape in no time and then he could come back, he still had those who cared about him and he could count on them.

As the pair of shinobi pushed on Naruto's mind continued to shift keeping from allowing the thoughts of his banishment to fall upon him. Instead his mind showed him flashes of his arrival back in Konoha only a day ago.

Kakashi had been there…well briefly, he'd been so eager to get Sasuke and him to the hospital, he hadn't really be around to say much…come to think of it he didn't remember Kakashi staying with him at all…he'd just been interested in Sasuke…Same with Sakura, she'd barely stopped to greet him before rushing to check on her precious Sasuke.

Come to think of it…who had visited me…there was Shikimaru…lucky guy only got a figure broken…and then…who else…Shizune Neechan…granny Tsunade…oh and Hinata and Shino…huh….wonder why Hinata fainted like that...huh… wait where was Jiraiya-sensei?...why didn't he visit me? Wondered Naruto as his blue eyes trailed up to his traveling companion who was looking ahead a focused look upon his brow. As he looked at the white haired man he felt a small pang in his gut followed by a pulse in his temple causing him to flinch slightly.

Ow…what the? Wondered Naruto blinking down at his stomach for a moment as he felt another pang and pulse soon joined by a small itching sensation on top of his head. As he continued forwards into the woods Naruto continued to get pang after pang, his head starting to throb even as that itching intensified.

Gah what the hell is that? If this keeps up I'll have to stop…but Jiraiya sensei said we had to keep moving…darn it what is that? Wondered Naruto reaching up with his unbandage arm to scratch at that itchy spot. As his figures scrapped across the spot small flecks of ink began to dig under his nails. After a few scratches it happened.

Like a wave the crushing reality of what had happened hit him again. The banishment, what it meant, what it was, how…HOW COULD HE EVEN THINK ABOUT BEING HAPPY LIKE BEFORE? WHAT WAS WRONG WITH HIM? WHY WAS HE JUST GRINNING LIKE AN IDIOT ABOUT THIS! Before these thoughts even had a moment to settle the panging in his gut hit again as the throbbing sensation in his head was suddenly replace by something else. A voice.

"YOU IDIOT GET OUT OF THERE!" roared a thunderous tone that caused Naruto to slip slightly as the massive wave of sadness and anger hit him full force only drowned out by those words.

Kyuubi…what? Started Naruto before the Fox roared out again and Naruto felt that small twinges as the demonic chakra began to move through him.

"SHUT UP AND RUN IT'S A TRAP YOU FOOL! ITS A TRAP HE'S GOING TO KILL YOU!" roared the fox his words hitting Naruto just as hard as his own emotions. Swiveling his eyes around he saw Jiraiya looking at him giving a small smile as they continued forwards.

What Ero-sensei wouldn't, your lying. Started Naruto only to have Kyuubi cut him off again with another roar.

"IDIOT HE PUT A SEAL ON YOU IN THAT MEETING TO MAKE YOU DOCILE, HE WAS LYING THE WHOLE TIME! I CAN SENSE EMOTIONS HE WAN'T AGAINST THAT BASTARD AT THE COUNICL MEETING HE WAS WITH HIM! HE STOPPED ME THEN! HE'S GOING TO KILL YOU TO GET TO ME!" yelled the fox again, as Naruto's eyes went slightly wide at the words his mind flashing back to the pang he'd felt then just when Jiraiya had spoken.

Before Naruto could begin to understand what was happening Jiraiya suddenly came to stop as they reached the edge of the valley where Naruto had had his fight with Sasuke. Naruto was too late to stop himself as he landed beside Jiraiya stiffening slightly as the older man turned to him with that same smile on his lips.

"Well Naruto? Ready to get that "sealing" out of the way?" chuckled Jiraiya stepping forwards on hand reaching out towards the boy only to have Naruto flinch back from him. It had been unintentional, basic instinct coupled with Kyuubi's words that had caused him to do it…and it was all that saved his life as he spied the seal upon Jiraiya's palm.

No….no. Thought Naruto his eyes bulging even as he saw the smile drop instantly from Jiraiya's face and Kyuubi's roars began again.

"I'M NOT DYING HERE BOY RUN DAMN YOU! TAKE ALL OF MY CHAKRA BUT RUN DAMN YOU!" roared Kyuubi as Naruto stumbled back his body flooding with demonic chakra as he did. Without pausing Jiraiya sprang forwards swiping his hand at the boy again only to hit empty air as a cloak of chakra sprung up around Naruto allowing him to fly backwards from the Sages grasp even as nine wavering tails of chakra exploded out of him his eyes becoming slitted as his form took on a feral appearance.

"Kyuubi, I guess that seal wasn't enough." Spat Jiraiya as he readied himself his words hitting Naruto like a physical blow.

"Ero…why?" called Naruto his voice oddly feral as the Kyuubi continued to scream at him to run. But he had to know, why…why? Why Jiraiya was doing this.

"So it's still you huh gaki…Well I wanted to do this clean, but looks like that fox doesn't want to go easily, just stand still and I'll make it quick ok." spoke Jiraiya as Naruto looked horrified.

"But….but." started Naruto as Jiraiya gave an audible sigh.

"You're a danger to Konoha gaki…I'm sorry, but we can't give the fox to Akatsuki, and we can't protect you from them, the only choice is this. Tsunade was too soft and we knew it, but banishment risks you coming back for revenge, and that can't be allowed either …For what it's worth Gaki I'm sorry, but we won't see Konoha burn just for you." Spoke Jiraiya. As his words filtered into Naruto's mind something inside of him snapped, and with a roar of primal fury Naruto shot forwards with blinding speed. Jiraiya only had a moment to blink before a searing pain opened up across his chest and he found himself flying backwards into the tree line, his last glimpse of Naruto being a nine tailed chakra shroud disappearing across the valley westward.

"Da…damn it." Managed Jiraiya struggling to move, to rush after him even as his chest throbbed. The Kyuubi's chakra would have drawn the border patrol by now…damn it, the plan was to have it be Orochimaru who attacked and killed him…now…wait that was it.

"Well kid, looks like you're a traitor now." muttered Jiraiya as he groaned holding one hand firmly to his chest keeping the wound from opening further as he waited to be found. A day later the story of how Orochimaru had arrived and offered Naruto the chance for revenge, and how the jinchuuriki had taken the offer leaving Jiraiya barely alive in his wake would be upon the lips of every soul of Konoha. On that day the future life of Naruto Uzumaki was changed forever.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

It was a few weeks later that found Naruto stumbling through the deserts of Suna with only his shattered thoughts and the fox for company.

"We're lost you know." Spoke the fox lazily as Naruto gave an annoyed groan as he forced his chakra to remain even on his feet so he wouldn't sink into the sand.

"For the last time no we aren't we're going to Suna, that's west and in the desert this is exactly where we want to be." Shot back Naruto as the Kyuubi snorted.

"West and in the desert, oh well that solves everything now doesn't it, you've never been to Suna you stupid meet bag! If it wasn't for my chakra keeping your body fed you'd be dead by now!" spat the Kyuubi as Naruto sighed as he came to the top of a dune only to see another on the horizon. For a moment Naruto just looked out across the dunes his mind flashing over his life in one horrible river of pain. The orphanage, the glares and whispers, his teammates hate…the villages…Kakashi…Sasuke…Sakura…the council…Jiraiya…everyone. Slowly Naruto sank down onto the dune his feet pushing into the warm sand as he allowed fresh tears to fall from his eyes. It was too much…just too much.

"What again? Honestly when are you going to stop crying about this?" grumbled the fox as Naruto growled.

"shut up." Muttered the teen as the fox gave a snort.

"What was that, I couldn't hear you over your blubbering meat bag." Snapped back the fox as Naruto glared down at his own stomach.

"SHUT UP YOU STUPID FOX!"

"Why so you can go and feel sorry for yourself some more, your wasting time, and my chakra with your pity parties!"

"YA WELL MY LIFE IS RUINED, I CAN'T GO HOME, MY SENSEI BETRAYED ME AND I'M IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FUCKING DESERT MY LIFE SUCKS!"

"Ha like you even know the meaning of the word ruined, try being used like a weapon for some red eyed bastard twice and then sealed with your body speared to a stone and then ending up in a sewer for over fifty years! Then come crying to me!" spat the fox as Naruto stopped the foxes rant catching him off guard.

"What?"

"Never mind meat bag you're wasting my time." Snorted the fox as it tried to cut the connection only to have Naruto's mind keep it open by force.

"Just tell me you furball or I'm not moving from this dune." Called Naruto as he folded his arms plopping himself securely into the desert sand. For a few moments Kyuubi seemed willing to just let the boy sit there and sink into the sand.

"Ah fine you idiot, but I'm not doing story time while you sit on your ass get moving!" roared the fox as Naruto despite himself found a smile playing across his lips as he pushed himself up and started moving forwards. It was a wonder what winning an argument with a legendary chakra fox could do for one's mood. As Naruto set off down the newest dune and Kyueed began his story back in Konoha the days after Naruto's "betrayal" had been chaotic at best.

A border patrol had found Jiraiya not long after Naruto's escape, the Kyuubi chakra having been like a beacon to draw them in. Fortunately or not by the time they reached the man he had already passed out from blood loss, and was rushed back to Konoha for medical care. It had been a day before he had been conscious enough to spin his tail of how Orochimaru had set upon them, and how he had offered Naruto the chance at getting revenge on the village.

Tsunade's heart had seized when Jiraiya had told her of what had happened, how Naruto had turned on him using the Kyuubi's chakra to attack him before racing off with the Snake. If Tsunade had not just spent the last half a day trying to save the sage's life from the demonic chakra of his wound, she wouldn't have thought it possible; but the wound left little doubt that Naruto had attacked Jiraiya.

When the council had demanded answers Jiraiya, had again spun his tail, only the elders and Danzo knowing the truth of his mission. Before the day was out Naruto had been placed as a missing nin in the files of Konoha with an A rank threat level. Despite the councils pleas Tsunade refused to put a kill order out on the boy, yelling that if the council hadn't forced them to act the boy would never have gone to Orochimaru, and that she wasn't going to kill the boy for their mistake. So against the council's wishes Naruto was entered as a retrieval order only.

What Tsunade had not expected however, was for the council then to announce to the village at large of Naruto's betrayal, and his status as the Jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi. When Tsunade had demanded to know why she shouldn't have them killed for breaking the thirds law, the response was simple. If he was now a danger to the village, their forces had to know what they could be running into. Looking out across the villages as the announcement had been made Tsunade watched first hand as those few who had supported Naruto had gone from shock to anger at the councils words, and seeing this Tsunade's' heart broke again as she turned to march back into her office where she had been ever since.

Inside the Hokage's office Tsunade sat behind her desk, her head upon her folded arms as she shook with sobs whispering apologies to the boy who had been like a brother to her.

"I'm sorry Naruto…kami I'm sorry." Whispered the blonde reaching up to grab a bottle laying upon her desk and tearing off the top to get at the saki within. Beside the desk sat Shizune, much like her lady in a state of open depression, sipping at a bottle of her own even as she tried and failed to find words to help with Tsunade's pain.

"If…if I'd fought harder…he…he." Cried Tsunade as Shizune moved over to hold her lady.

"We…we'll find him lady Tsunade…we'll find him…." managed Shizune as Tsunade's brown eyes turned to her red from weeping. Slowly Tsunade nodded, at the woman's words as she allowed herself to slip closer to the woman's embrace, knowing deep down that even if the boy were to return, that few would be there to welcome him.

At the same time across the village within a small training field one of the few who would have welcomed Naruto back was even now watching as those who had been to boys friends were discussing the blonde's recent departure her wide pale eyes struggling to keep the moisture from escaping them.

"I can't believe it…he was the fox all along." muttered a feral boy looking over to his stoic teammate, whose face was concealed by his oversized coat.

"Kiba, he is a Jinchuuriki, not the fox." replied the stoic figure as Kiba growled looking away from his friend.

"And that helps, he's a traitor now, he abandoned the village. What's it matter anymore." Muttered the teen as Shino let out a small sigh.

"I suppose it doesn't anymore…though I wouldn't have thought it possible of him. Sasuke was shown to be influenced by the curse seal, but this…this is different." replied Shino as a sigh drew the pairs attention to another of the group who stood a few feet away.

"You never know how someone will act when backed into a corner, the council was wrong, but it happened, and instead of trying to follow the Hokage's plan he chose revenge. Now he's joined that traitor Orochimaru face it he's not the guy we knew." Muttered Shikimaru as beside him the heavyset Choji nodded sadly.

"Idiot, why? You all just risked your lives to bring Sasuke-kun back and now this! Ahh I don't get it. I mean the Hokage went out of her way to protect him and he goes and turns traitor!" shouted Ino as beside her Sakura nodded slowly.

"He...it doesn't matter anymore, he's a traitor. He…he turned his back on everyone…" Whispered Sakura as she looked over to Ino who nodded slightly. Beside the blond Shikimaru, sighed rubbing his forehead as he looked around at the members of the rooky nine gathered there.

"So that's it then…we're in agreement." Asked Shikimaru looking around at the gathered genin who nodded in agreement, all except Hinata, who continued to watch them deciding the fate of their blond companion.

"Alright, we'll handle this matter ourselves, Naruto Uzumaki is from our year, and we'll be the ones to bring him back to face his crimes…or stop him if we need to." Finished Shikimaru as the group nodded each slipping of individually till only Hinata remained finally allowing her tears to fall as she fell to her knees.

"Nar…naruto-kun…you wouldn't…I know you wouldn't….please….please come back." Whimpered the Hyuuga girl as she thought of the blond knucklehead that she loved.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Meanwhile across the world in the land of wind Naruto continued to trudge forwards through the desert the sun having retreated for the day, leaving the moon to now hang over the vast sands causing them to glow with an eerie white countenance.

"So it was that Madura guy that did all this…that's crazy." Muttered Naruto as the fox snorted.

"No that's the Uchiha, bunch of red eyed bastards." Grumbled the Kyuubi as Naruto nodded continuing forwards.

"And he's descended from your dad…wow…so you were a tree once?" asked Naruto as the fox snorted letting out a deep chuckle.

"I suppose you could say that, I was part of one anyway, all of my siblings were, it was only thanks to my father that we became something more." Replied Kyuubi with what Naruto could almost call warmth to his tone.

"Sounds like an amazing guy." Replied Naruto as the Kyuubi chuffed.

"Of course he was, what would you expect from the father of the great Kyuubi!" called the fox as Naruto found himself smiling slightly as he looked on ahead.

"So…your previous hosts were Uzumaki's as well…that Mito and that Kushina lady." Asked Naruto a small note of hope in his tone that did not go unnoticed to the fox.

"Hai, both of them, but unlike you their seals were more solid…and painful. Can't say I ever spared more than a word with either, except for when that stupid Kushina would come to argue with me about somthing." Replied the fox as Naruto's heart sank slightly. He'd hoped that he would have learned a little more about the Uzumaki's from the fox, but it seemed he was at a loss. For the fox, the previous seals had been true prisons, almost nothing got in or out, he only even knew who he had been sealed in due to those brief visits he had mentioned.

"Oh…I see."

"Still, at least you're willing to speak with me, I guess that's something better than the other Uzumaki's." muttered the fox as Naruto felt a small smile twitch at his lips.

"Th…thanks." Whispered Naruto as Kurama gave a small huff ignoring the teen's comment as the pair continued forwards across the dunes.

After a few days of travel, Naruto's body was finally reaching its limit. Thanks to Kyuubi's chakra he had been able to stave off exhaustion, burning it to keep his body going, but even this had its limits. Staggering forwards Naruto found himself slipping down a sandy dune his feet failing him as he slipped into a roll.

As the teen's body banged down the embankment, he could vaguely hear Kyuubi's annoyed cries, but even that was somehow distant.

My…my body…so tired…jus…just a little nap…ya just a nap. Thought the boy as his body finally came to a halt, his eyes drifting shut, their last view being of some kind of green that he couldn't quite place prompting one final thought before darkness claimed him.

…wha…what's a tree doing in the desert? As Naruto's consciousness faded he could not know that at long last he had reached a land that none had traveled to since the days of the first Hokage. Lying against the border of the desert upon a small patch of grass that was the entrance into the land of the west long since lost to the elemental nations.

An unknown amount of time passed Naruto by as he lay unconscious. Vaguely he was aware his body was moving at times, but everything was a blur at best. Finally after what felt like an eternity Naruto found himself coming into consciousness again, his eyes blinking the blurriness away as a soft light touched his eyes.

"ugh…wha." Mumbled Naruto noticing how dry his mouth had become as his eyes drifted around taking in where he was lying. It was a small room, simple most would call it, but warm in its own way. A few small bits of furniture were scattered around giving it a live in feel to it.

Pushing himself up slightly Naruto found himself lying in a bed the heavy quilts laying upon shifting as he sat up.

"Where?" muttered Naruto.

"Well look whose back."

"Kyuubi?"

"Ya looks like you passed out on the edge of the desert. I told you we weren't going the right way." Added the fox in an "I told you so" tone that caused Naruto to groan.

"Ya…ya whatever." Muttered Naruto pushing himself out of the bed noticing as he did that he was dressed in only his boxers. As his feet touched the ground a small noise drew his eyes around to the door where a figure stood blinking at him her hands held up to her mouth covering it as her yellow eyes meet his. Naruto suddenly became very aware of his dress letting out a small yell of embarrassment as he pulled the quilted bed top to cover himself blushing slightly as he looked across that the woman in the doorway who wave now giving an almost mocking smile at the boys actions idly brushing a few strands of flowing green hair from her shoulders that fell down her back hugging her rather impressive frame against the white dress she wore.

"Who…who are you?" called Naruto trying to hid his embarrassment as the woman gave a small laugh moving into the room and taking a seat not far from him still giving him a slightly annoying smile.

"It's common to give your own name first gaki. Also to be dressed before addressing a lady." Chuckled the woman her tone slightly mocking but in more amusement than anything else. Still blushing slightly Naruto looked around the room spying his cloths folded beside the bed on a small end table. What followed was a rather comical period where Naruto tried to get dressed while keeping himself covered by the blanket causing him to fall several times, drawing a few chuckles from the green haired woman that watched him. Finally Naruto was dressed noting as he pulled on his shirt that the tears and holes seemed to have been patched so that he at least was no longer dressed in rags.

"Well that took you some time, though I will admit it was rather entertaining." Chuckled the woman as Naruto gave her a small pouting look that seemed to only entertain her all the more.

"Ya well you could have looked away." Called Naruto as the woman chuckled again.

"And I could have left you to die on the edge of the desert. I chose to do neither." Chuckled the woman as Naruto paused.

"You…you saved me?" asked Naruto drawing a smile to the woman's lips.

"That is did, now your name if you don't mind." Called the woman as Naruto gave her another small pout before speaking.

"Fine, I'm Naruto Uzumaki." Called Naruto as the woman nodded.

"I see, well Naruto you may call me C.C. for now. I have some questions for you, but more importantly I have to know, do you come from the east?" asked the now identified C.C. her words catching Naruto slightly off guard.

The east? What does she mean? Wondered Naruto as Kyuubi shrugged.

"Well you did cross the desert idiot, these must be the western lands, I remember my father mentioning them once long ago. It's likely you're the first since him to cross over all the way." Remarked the fox as Naruto gave a mental nod looking back to C.C. who was waiting for his reply.

"Um…ya I'm from the east." Replied Naruto as C.C. nodded.

"I see, and from this," here she held up his shinobi headband waving it slightly, "I take it you are a shinobi correct." Remarked the yellow eyed woman as Naruto stiffened his mind already racing.

Oh no, if she finds out then she might contact Konoha…they'll come to get me… what am I going to do? Thought Naruto in a rush, the panic in his mind apparently making its way onto his face as the woman let out a small chuckle tossing him the headband as she pushed herself up.

"Easy there gaki, I'm not looking to turn you in or anything, just keep it quiet. Here in the west people like you are rare and I don't want one of those lords showing up to wreak my home just to get to you." Spoke the woman drawing a confused look from naruto.

"People like me?" he asked wondering if she could possibly know about the Kyuubi.

"Yes you, chakra wielders, here in the west your type is rare, heck I think I've only met a handful of others since I've been alive." Commented the woman idly scratching at her chin as she took a contemplating look.

"Wh…what? No chakra?" asked Naruto as C.C. shrugged.

"Well kind of, I mean we all have some, but only enough to do minor stuff, nothing like the stuff we hear the east is capable of, but we get by just fine on our own. We've found a way around the stuff, trust me you don't need chakra to be dangerous here." Spoke the woman giving a small shrug before continuing to speak.

"Now come on unless you want to spend all day in my back room. You've been down for a few days, and I'm not playing babysitter." Commented the woman as she rose turning to leave the room Naruto trotting along after her his mind still buzzing with questions of this new land.

C.C. soon showed him her village, nothing too large, but quaint in a way. A few people waved at the pair as they moved around through the squares and markets Naruto looking around at the villagers. Their dress was a little different to him, a lot like what he'd seen in wave, but something else was missing. No shinobi, none, he had grown up surrounded by such people, not seeing them here felt…well odd.

As the day stretched on Naruto found himself relaxing more and more around this C.C. woman. She wasn't really overly kind, if anything she acted more like an older sibling to him openly mocking him, while at the same time teaching him about the Western lands he now found himself in.

From what she told him the western lands had once been united under some crazed leader over a hundred years ago who had eventually died at the hands of one of his sons. After that the empire had shattered forming into feuding lords that fought for the empires throne, leading to the state of things as they were now. In return Naruto told C.C. all about the east, as well as his own life, avoiding speaking at any length about his recent departure.

After a time both found themselves back in C.C's home Naruto helping her as she prepared a meal still chatting ideally as they did.

"So what now Naruto, far as I can tell you don't want to go back east, and the west isn't exactly the safest place to just be wondering around." Commented the woman as she tipped a few diced vegetables into a pot looking over to see Naruto chopping some meat, but stopping as she spoke. C.C. watched as the boys hands seemed to tremble slightly holding the knife he had been using his whole body tensing as his looked down at his hands.

Wha…what am I going to do…I can't go home…and if I go back into the desert I could really die this time…what am I going to do? Wondered Naruto shivering slightly before he felt a small warm embrace encircle him. Blinking up Naruto saw C.C.'s smiling face looking down into his a moment before she reached out to flick his noise.

"ow, hey." Started Naruto before C.C. interrupted him.

"Well whatever, you still have to pay me back for all the work saving you, so it's not like I'm sending you away just yet, so stop moping and get back to chopping." Called C.C. as she let go of him casting a small smile back as she moved back to the stew casting Naruto a small look back as she reached it.

"Hey that wasn't a suggestion Naruto get to chopping!" called the woman as Naruto shook himself slightly turning to get back to work with a small trace of a smile spreading over his face. Things carried on like this for a few more days, with C.C. getting Naruto to perform chores around her home, telling him a few things here and there about the West in return for Naruto sharing more about the east and his own life with her. As the days continued on Naruto found himself smiling again, since he had left Konoha. It still hurt for him to remember the village, his friends… but if he couldn't go back, at least it seemed he'd found a home to belong in.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

It had been a few days since Naruto had begun to settle into a habit with C.C. that the blond found himself at the market his eyes scanning down a list as he moved from stall to stall.

"Ok carrots, radish, beef, is that everything?" muttered Naruto.

"I'm not your private secretary….and you forget the beans again." Snorted the fox as Naruto mentally slapped himself turning back to the opposite side of the market where the groceries were.

"Darn it, why didn't you tell me earlier?" grumbled Naruto as he set off back the way he came his tenant chuckling as he marched.

"Because I like to see you suffer, makes me feel all warm and tingly." Chuckled the fox as Naruto sent a mental glare his way.

"You're a sadist." Muttered the blond as the fox chuckled.

Just as Naruto was about to fire up with a fresh insult a whistling above drew his eyes skyward. For a few moments the blond simply stared into the vast skies, until a small black spot that seemed to be drawing closer drew his attention. For a few seconds Naruto just watched the speck trying to figure out what it was, till his eyes went wide in sudden horrible understanding.

"Oh Kami EVERYONE RUN!" cried Naruto dropping his bags as he started dashing forwards towards the town square. Around him several people stopped looking towards the boy they had come to know over the past week before looking skyward to try and spot what he had. One by one people froze in horror before cries rang out as what appeared to be several armored figures connected to some kind of bright yellow gliders came into view. As they swooped lower Naruto spied the armor they were wearing his heart racing as he recognized a few of the symbols upon it.

"Tha…that looks like the armor that Doto guy from snow wore…but…but why is it here?" called Naruto as he saw the small group of flying figures dip down large rectangular canon's in their hands all trained down upon the village. I second later with a sound of grinding metal a storm of metal started to rain down from the air bound figures sending ups blast of dust and stone as they raced across the square and shops drawing cries of fear and pain from those below.

As the metal began to fly Naruto's world went red as he leapt upon the side of one building racing up its length his eyes burning as he focused on the flying figures. One of the airborne assailants was just banking around for another pass when a cry of rage drew his eyes around his mind freezing as he saw the red eyed Naruto flying towards him a swirling ball of purple chakra in one hand outstretched in his hand. The flyers last sight was that of the swirling orb plunging into his face before his mind went blank.

His fellows in the skies turned just in time to see their partners glider spinning down to crash into the square as they were forced to veer off, as a wave of oversized shuriken flew upwards from a blond youth standing in the village square. As the remaining flyers swerved back into position their cannon's trained on the boy a series of pops behind them drew their eyes around. A wave of smoke meet their eyes as the blade flung towards them exploded into copies of the boy each now pelting down at them. Before the flyers could manage to avoid them blond blurs crashed into their gliders clawed hand digging into the steel as they impacted. Soon each of the flyers were tumbling down to the ground their occupants either roaring in anger as they tried and failed to fling the attacking clones off of them, or already silenced by a well-placed kunai.

At the same time Naruto was already moving, leaving the small group of flyers to their fact his mind racing as he pelted down the road towards C.C. home panic tearing at his insides like a ravenous beast. As Naruto came out of the town proper he turned just in time to see C.C.'s home now ablaze a great hole torn into its side with several of the same armored figures from the square scattered about lying motionless around the area, while still others stood around their cannons pointed outwards a few taking notice of Naruto as he came into view.

Seeing this Naruto's heart froze.

"C.C.!" cried Naruto rushing forwards towards the home the armored figures canons tracking over towards the boy even as he brought his own hand up into a familiar handsign. Just as the figures were about to open fire Naruto erupted into a cloud of smoke as a wave of red eyed blonds exploded into being all rushing forwards as the armored forces looked on in horror. With howls of fear the forces began spraying fire into the advancing wave of blondes kunai flinging themselves into their midst as clones exploded left and right. However, it was too little to stop the tide of Naruto who swept over the gunners dragging them down as Naruto shot past towards the home skidding to a halt as the entrance collapsed in a crash the flames swallowing it whole a second later.

"NO C.C.!" cried Naruto as his legs went out from under him his eyes losing their red glow as he watched the flames consume the home. In horror Naruto watched as the home began to collapse in on itself his mind struggling to fight what he was seeing even as a harsh voice called out across from where he laid.

"YOU! BOY!" cried a bark of a voice causing Naruto to look around to see a tall armored figure who like his fellows whore the grey chakra armor, only his sported a heavy layer of metal plates all along it making him appear almost like some walking fortress. His face twisted into a scowl barely visible from his armored helm. Naruto however, didn't respond his face vacant as he watch he latest home burn.

"Naruto! NARUTO DAMN IT SNAP OUT OF IT!" roared Kyuubi as the great armored figure swept a massive spiked club around moving forwards towards the stationary boy.

C.C….everyone….wh….why…why. Thought Naruto his world collapsing once again even as the club came roaring down towards him. But the blow never reached him. There was a grinding of metal as the massive weapon was forced back, even as a white armored figure stepped past Naruto a long straight blade coming around flicking through the air gracefully as the armored man let out a howl of pain a crimson line opening up across is armored chest as he fell back a few steps cursing.

"YOU!" roared the man his hand reaching up to try and press his wound closed even as the newest arrival looked down towards Naruto. The boy's eyes had gone wide at what he was now seeing. The figure before him stood in armor as well, only different from what he had seen. For one it was bright white, and more form fitting, though heavy interlocking plates still covered it, only showing small flashes of black and blue at the joints, where the knee's and armored shoulders hung just enough to allow for movement. However, that was not what drew Naruto's eyes, it was the wave of green hair leading up to a familiar face the drew his eyes even as a familiar smirk looked down at him.

"Honestly I send you to do shopping and here I find you playing with these idiots. I take one week away from the lines and you get nothing but trouble." Muttered the armored maiden as Naruto's eyes welled up with tears.

"C.C." he cried as the armored woman gave him a small smirk.

"Of course, like a little fire would be enough to stop me. I told you that we of the west didn't need chakra to be dangerous." Chuckled C.C. as she turned lifting her blade again, it's tip pointed towards the armored figures as her eyes flashed dangerously. Naruto followed her movement his eyes falling upon the long straight blade unlike the curved blade he had seen in the east its tip aimed directly at the figure before them.

"BITCH FOR MY LORD YOU WILL DIE HERE AND YOUR PATHETIC FORCES WILL FOLLOW!" roared the hulking figure as he swung his weapon up one again. Before he could even manage to lift the weapon fully C.C. had already moved her figure almost seeming to vanish into a blur of white as she sprung forwards her blade outstretched.

Naruto watched in awe as she flew forwards, her speed reminding him of what he had seen lee once accomplish back in his own village. Before the figure could even recognize the attack had begun it was over, as C.C.'s blade punched clear through his armor the point forced out his back as a wave of crimson exploded out of him. With a quick flick the blade was back out and C.C. had skipped back a few steps allowing the armored figure to collapse as she turned still smirking to see Naruto's stunned face.

"What's the matter Naruto? Never seen a woman fight before, though I suppose I am still incredible to behold." Commented the woman flicking her blade before sheathing it with a sharp snap so that it hung at her side. As she marched back over to where Naruto sat she was suddenly balled over as the boy flung himself forwards with enough force to bring her down, his arms wrapped around her as he cried into her armored chest catching her off guard.

"I…I thou….I thought you were…" managed naruto between tears as C.C. sighed looking down at the boy and moving so that one armored hand rested lightly upon his head her figures running gently through his hair.

"Hai, I understand, but I can't go anywhere yet, beside you still owe me." chuckled C.C. as Naruto nod into her form not releasing her from his grip.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

After a time Naruto had managed to calm himself enough to start asking what was happening. However, before he could get his answers a small army of armored figures had arrived all sporting armor more similar to C.C.'s and rushing to find her. As Naruto watched he saw them rushing about tending to the injured while others gathered the weapons and armor of the fallen forces all under the watchful eye of C.C.

As the day came to an end Naruto found himself seated in a large tent across from C.C. who had finally removed most of her armor, and was now facing him in the same dress she had worn when they had first meet.

"So I'm guessing you want answers right?" asked C.C. as Naruto nodded causing her to smirk slightly.

"I thought so. Well remember me telling you about those fighting to reclaim the kingdom?" asked the woman as Naruto nodded.

"Good, seems you can listen." Chuckled C.C. as Naruto gave her an annoyed look that only seemed to amuse her all the more.

"Anyway, I just happen to be the leader of this particular group you see." Started the green haired woman gesturing out of the tent towards where a large force of armored figures were milling about.

"Then you're trying to take over the country?" asked Naruto as C.C. shrugged.

"I suppose that's one way to put it. Really I along with several others simply became tired of the constant conflicts taking our homes. Most of those out there are from places just like that town, caught up in a war they didn't ask for. For us the only way to keep from dying for someone else's stupid war is to end it ourselves." Remarked C.C. as Naruto nodded slightly looking over at her armor for a moment before looking back to her.

"So those guys." He started.

"Were there to raid the village, it was just bad luck it was where I had gone to recover, just like it was good luck I found you at the edge of the desert." Replied C.C. as Naruto nodded.

"C…can I stay with you?" asked Naruto as C.C. gave him a contemplating look.

"I wouldn't be against it Naruto, someone like you is a game changer for our forces. The major powers have been gathering chakra wielders and forcing them into their army's for a long time. Even I can't take some of them on in a fair fight, and not to brag but I'm easily the best fighter our forces have." Remarked the woman reaching out to rap lightly against her armor.

"Besides from how you handled those forces, it might just be possible for us to put an end to all of this stupid fighting." Spoke C.C. as Naruto felt a small smirk move across his lips.

"You just say that so you can sleep in more." Pointed out Naruto as C.C. gave off a small chuckle.

"Maybe…so what do you say Naruto? Want to help me liberate the West? Who knows you might even pay off your debt to me along the way." Finished C.C. as Naruto found himself grinning in reply.

"I'll do it." Called the boy as C.C. rose.

"Well then let's go and meet the troops, after all, you'll be the first chakra user they've met that hasn't tried to kill them." Spoke C.C. as Naruto hopped up to follow after her and out into the camp. He may have lost his future in the East, but his future in the West was only just beginning.

Ok chapter one over, hope you enjoyed it and that you are looking forwards to more.

For images of the gliders and armor see Naruto movies listed above.

For C.C. armor check out Code-Geass-Shikkoku-no-Renya, chapter 1. Just took C.C.'s armor from that and nothing else, as I really didn't like that mange but the armor for her was cool.

Songbird out.