Chapter 25

Naruto, unaware of the complex events unfolding in the background, continued his progress with the plans he had laid out. In the morning, he visited Tsunade, his mind focused on the idea that had been weighing on him for days: the potential of enhancing physical strength through consuming stronger monsters. He also presented the idea of monster sealing, a method that he believed could be transformative for both individuals and the world.

Kakashi's own experience with the monster sealing process had been proof enough for Tsunade that Naruto's idea had potential. The thought that one could channel and refine the powers of monsters into usable forms was revolutionary, allowing warriors to grow exponentially stronger without being bound by chakra limitations alone. Tsunade saw the merits of the plan and knew that, with it, more people would be able to join the fight against formidable foes, contributing to their growing ranks.

However, Naruto's suggestion to eat stronger monsters was met with more skepticism. The idea, though intriguing, was fraught with risks. Tsunade immediately noted the fundamental issues with this approach. First, the supply of such powerful creatures was limited. Even if stronger beings could be hunted, the quantities necessary to feed an entire population of shinobi would be hard to sustain. Additionally, the stronger the creature, the more difficult it would be to digest. Without proper consideration, the human body might not be able to handle such powerful sources of energy, leading to severe health complications.

The second issue, more immediate and concerning, was the potential for disease. The human body was simply not designed to consume such raw and potent energies, and it could result in mutations or even dangerous pandemics. Tsunade grimaced at the thought of a disease outbreak caused by feeding on monster flesh. However, given their current advancements in medicine, chakra control, and technological resources, she also knew that, with proper safeguards, this could be mitigated.

Yet, perhaps the greatest hurdle lay in the social and cultural stigma surrounding the practice. The very idea of eating monster flesh was something that had been traditionally seen as barbaric, as something only uncivilized people would do. It was an ancient taboo that had persisted through generations, and breaking it was not something the village leadership took lightly.

Nevertheless, Tsunade was pragmatic. The idea, though unconventional, wasn't outlandish enough to dismiss outright. After careful consideration, she decided to conduct a small-scale experiment. She called upon a Chunin-level ninja and requested that he participate in testing the effects of eating monster flesh—one piece prepared in the usual way and another cooked using the Akimichi clan's method of enhancing digestion.

As the Chunin ate the normally prepared monster fish, Tsunade's keen medical observation skills went to work, analyzing the process on a microscopic level. She watched as the human body struggled to process the foreign food. Even though the monster's chakra content was immense, the human digestive system found it difficult to break down the nutrients. It was exactly what she had feared—the energy from the monster's life force caused a negative reaction in the body, leaving the test subject in discomfort and at risk of severe harm.

At first, the test appeared to be a failure. However, just as Tsunade was about to suggest abandoning the experiment, an Akimichi clan member stepped forward. He volunteered to try consuming the monster food, confident in his clan's unique ability to digest almost anything. Tsunade, though skeptical, agreed to proceed.

The Akimichi clan member, whose family was renowned for their unique ability to manipulate food for enhanced digestion, decided to test the food himself. The technique used by the Akimichi was a closely guarded secret—an ability that allowed them to break down and integrate any food they consumed into their bodies with no negative side effects. With this technique, the Akimichi ninja consumed the monster fish effortlessly, digesting it at an astonishing rate.

Tsunade, who had been observing with intense focus, was amazed by the results. The food that had caused complications for the Chunin ninja was processed without issue by the Akimichi clan member. In just seconds, the energy from the food was fully absorbed and integrated into the ninja's body. The Akimichi clan member marveled at the sudden surge of power that flowed through him. The technique worked flawlessly, and the results were beyond Tsunade's expectations. The food monster had fully combined with the body without a single waste of energy, making it a perfect match for the kind of consumption Naruto had proposed.

Tsunade's mind raced as she realized the incredible potential of the Akimichi clan's technique. She had never thought to look into it, and had missed out on this remarkable ability that could be the key to their plans for monster consumption. With this method, humanity could finally begin to unlock their true physical limits. The technique would allow them to consume even the strongest monsters without risk of harm, ensuring that their bodies could reach new levels of power.

However, despite the promising success, there were still problems to consider. The issue of supply remained, and Tsunade was aware that bringing too many powerful monsters into the world could result in uncontrollable consequences. The rise of a monster tide, with an overabundance of dangerous creatures, could lead to catastrophe. While it would keep the shinobi on their toes and push them to grow stronger, the risks were far from negligible.

After careful consideration, Tsunade made the decision to present the idea to the other Kage, as it was a decision that could have far-reaching consequences. If they could reach an agreement with the other nations, the plan could proceed, but it needed to be considered from all angles before making such a bold move. With a deep breath, Tsunade prepared to approach the other Kage, knowing that this could be the key to humanity's future strength—but also a decision that carried immense risk.

Naruto, blissfully unaware of the complex considerations and the intricate political landscape that surrounded his plan, had set the stage for a new chapter in the evolution of the shinobi world.

Naruto had called for an urgent meeting in the Land of Iron, gathering the Kage, along with Kakashi and Tsunade, to discuss the pressing matters that had begun to shape the future of their world. Before the meeting, Naruto had been advised not to answer any questions hastily, as the other Kage might attempt to manipulate the situation, drawing him into problematic situations. While Naruto wasn't inclined to believe such things, he understood the complexities of diplomacy, especially considering the deep-rooted enmity that had existed for so long between the villages. It wasn't easy to expect immediate cooperation after years of conflict.

The meeting had been arranged quickly, taking just one day to bring all the Kage together. As Naruto arrived, he was met with an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendliness. The Kage were all in high spirits, chatting animatedly about their shared experiences during the Fourth Great Ninja War. Naruto, seeing this, allowed himself to feel hopeful. Perhaps, after everything that had happened, the villages were finally beginning to move past their old grudges.

When the meeting officially began, Naruto laid out his ideas for the future. He was determined to present these plans as a means of enhancing their collective power.

However, the most pressing issue that dominated the meeting was the Fusion Jinchuuriki plan. Naruto had already secured the cooperation of Isobu and Son Goku, who had agreed to consider candidates from other nations for the fusion, while the other Tailed Beasts had already chosen the individuals Naruto had suggested. The importance of this plan to the future of the world was not lost on the Kage, and Naruto could see that they understood the stakes.

The meeting then shifted to discussing the greater threat to the world, something that weighed heavily on everyone's minds. Mei, the Mizukage, was the first to speak up, her disdain for the proposal clearly evident in her tone.

"I hate that creature a lot, but it seems like we have no other choice," she said, clearly uncomfortable with the plan to work with the Tailed Beasts and their chosen vessels. Her dislike for the arrangement was palpable, but Naruto was quick to defend his new friends.

"Isobu isn't someone you need to hate. He's a nice person with a timid personality, so please treat him well," Naruto replied, a protective tone in his voice. He couldn't stand hearing someone speak ill of the very beings who had become his allies.

Mei looked at him, a glint of mischief in her eyes. She gave him a seductive smile and winked, making Naruto feel a little flustered. Normally, Mei would have reminded him to be more mindful of his position, but given Naruto's status and the relationship they had formed over the years, she let it slide with a teasing remark.

"If you say so, hero," Mei said, her tone playful.

Naruto's cheeks flushed at her words, but he quickly refocused, unwilling to be distracted. In the midst of the lighthearted moment, Inoki, the Tsuchikage, took the floor.

"Stop distracting our guardian, Mizukage," Inoki said, his voice stern but calm. "Uzumaki Naruto, I put my granddaughter forward as the candidate. Is she suitable?" He gestured to a young girl standing nearby. Kurotsuchi, Inoki's granddaughter, was a fierce-looking girl, her intense gaze and fiery ambition clear as she stood tall and unyielding.

"I can do it," Kurotsuchi said with determination, her voice unwavering.

Naruto turned to Sun Goku, seeking his opinion. The Tailed Beast scrutinized the girl carefully, analyzing her potential as a candidate for the Fusion Jinchuuriki. Kurotsuchi had the ability to use Lava Style, and she was well on her way to learning Molecule Style, which made her an ideal candidate in terms of power. She also had the kind of ambition and drive that Sun Goku respected.

"She is good enough. I hope she won't break," Son Goku muttered, his rough voice full of skepticism. Despite his reservations, he seemed willing to give Kurotsuchi a chance. After all, the fusion process had made him the weakest of the Tailed Beasts, and he needed someone with ambition and strength if he was going to break free of his fate.

Naruto paraphrased Sun Goku's words to Kurotsuchi. "He thinks you are good and likes your ambitious mindset," Naruto said, offering the girl reassurance.

Kurotsuchi nodded, a determined look on her face. She wasn't intimidated by the enormity of the task ahead. She was ready to prove herself, not only to her village but to herself.

The Raikage, Ay, who had been quietly observing, spoke up next. "What about the others?" he asked, clearly concerned about the progress of the other Bijuu and their chosen vessels.

"They have already chosen their vessels from Konoha," Naruto replied, his tone measured.

The answer wasn't well received by everyone in the room. It was clear that some Kage were less than pleased with the idea of the vessels coming from Konoha. Tensions were rising, but Tsunade quickly stepped in to ease the situation.

"Things happened in such a manner, and the Bijuu ended up liking the first people that Naruto mentioned," Tsunade explained. "However, we have a solution to that problem. We can use the mythical beasts as fusion partners." She glanced at Kakashi, who had prepared a demonstration to show how this could work.

The room fell silent as the demonstration took place. Kakashi's display was impressive, and it managed to capture the attention of the Kage. The idea of using mythical beasts as fusion partners seemed to alleviate some of their concerns, providing a viable alternative to the current situation.

"That's a wonderful idea," Mei exclaimed, clapping her hands in approval. Her gaze lingered on Kakashi for a moment longer than necessary, her interest in him obvious.

The others nodded in agreement, and soon the conversation shifted to the next important topic: monster consumption. The idea of eating monster meat had been met with skepticism and disgust, as it was widely considered both harmful and unpalatable. However, with the threat of the growing monsters and the needs of the hour, the Kage reluctantly agreed that they had no choice but to consider it.

Tsunade and Kakashi explained the solution they had devised, and with that, the group saw the light at the end of the tunnel. The risks of consuming monster meat were mitigated by the Akimichi clan's technique, which allowed the human body to digest the food without any negative consequences. This revelation lightened the mood, and the Kage seemed more at ease with the plan.

The room fell silent as Naruto laid out his final request. He asked for a collection of the most coveted techniques and secrets—Light Speed Slash, Molecule Style, Golem Creation, Lightning Armor, Laser Circus, Hydrification Technique, Water Mirror Technique, and Great Shark Bullet. These were abilities that only the most elite ninjas in the world possessed, and none would dare to share them lightly, let alone request them from their peers. But Naruto, with his unparalleled influence and strength, had done just that.

The Kage sat still, each grappling with the enormity of Naruto's request. It wasn't that they didn't believe he needed them; it was more the fact that these were techniques they had worked a lifetime to develop and perfect. Sharing them with someone else, especially someone as powerful as Naruto, was unheard of. Yet, as the room grew quiet, it was clear that none of them could outright refuse him. The mere thought of denying a being of Naruto's caliber was an uncomfortable one, and none dared to speak it aloud.

Mifune, who had been watching the exchange quietly, was the most surprised. As the leader of the Land of Iron, he had always been on the periphery of the ninja world, ignored and often underestimated by the greater nations. To hear Naruto openly mention such powerful techniques—many of which Mifune had spent years researching—was nothing short of shocking. However, as much as it pained him, Mifune knew the request was valid. Denying Naruto would be selfish and perhaps even dangerous. But how could he possibly give away something so precious?

Gaara, the Kazekage, was the first to speak up, his voice calm but filled with the weight of leadership. "Mister Uzumaki, you are asking a lot from us. Can we expect something in return?" He voiced the question that was on the minds of the other Kage. They had all been silent up until now, waiting for one of them to break the tension and ask the question that would shift the balance of the conversation.

Naruto smiled warmly, never one to hide his intentions. "Of course, I would never force you," he replied honestly, his voice sincere. "I'm not asking for anything in return unless you feel it's necessary. If you'd like to make an agreement, I'm open to discussion."

Despite his words, there was still a sense of skepticism in the air. Only Mei seemed to be fully trusting, and of course, Tsunade and Kakashi, who had long been loyal to him. The others still had reservations, but the situation was undeniable. They had little choice but to cooperate with Naruto, considering the growing threats to the world and the power he wielded.

It was Mei, the Mizukage, who broke the silence next, her voice laced with playful seriousness. She licked her lips, as if savoring the moment. "I will give you everything if you will marry me," she declared, making her offer clear.

Her words left the room in stunned silence. No one had expected such a bold proposition, especially not from the Mizukage, whose beauty and strength were known across the lands. But Mei had a vision for herself—a vision of a handsome, successful man who could sweep her off her feet, one who could protect her village and ensure its prosperity. Most men, in her eyes, couldn't measure up. But Naruto? He ticked all the boxes. He was destined to become even more powerful, and his current status as the strongest being in existence only solidified his appeal. If she married him, not only would she personally gain, but her village would benefit from permanent protection.

The other Kage looked at each other, their expressions a mixture of surprise and calculation. They had not expected Mei's proposition, but it opened the door for others to follow suit. It wasn't just about securing Naruto's power—it was about getting closer to the center of influence and potentially gaining more from their connection to him.

"I will allow it," said Onoki, the Tsuchikage, his tone firm but not without a certain level of respect. "If you would marry my granddaughter and power up our barrier with your full power." Onoki's proposal was strategic. He had always been a man who saw the value in leveraging strength for the future of his village, and he wasn't going to let this opportunity pass. Naruto's abilities would bolster their defenses, something Onoki could not ignore.

The Raikage, Ay, spoke next, his voice gruff. "I too would like to make a request. If you would consider marrying into our family, we would have the Raikage bloodline fused with your power."

Naruto hadn't expected these kinds of requests. He had expected collaboration and cooperation, but marriage proposals? These were not what he had anticipated. However, Kakashi and Tsunade, who had been observing from the sidelines, had already considered this turn of events. They knew that when faced with an overpowering individual like Naruto, people would try to get closer to him in any way they could—whether through influence, power, or personal connection. This was simply a natural outcome of such a situation.

Mifune, who had no granddaughter to offer, seemed to weigh the situation carefully. Despite his lack of familial connections to offer, he too saw the value in aligning himself with Naruto. "I would like you to accept my grandson as your follower," Mifune said, his voice steady. He explained that his grandson had not been able to attend the meeting because he had gotten lost on the way, but he hoped that Naruto might still consider him. The offer was humble, but it carried with it the unspoken acknowledgment that Naruto was the most important figure in the world at that moment, and Mifune was eager to ensure his family's future by securing a connection with the young guardian.

Naruto, though taken aback by the unexpected nature of these requests, realized that this was how the world worked. People wanted to secure their positions in the face of overwhelming power, and Naruto had become that force. His strength, his connections, and his vision for the future made him an unparalleled figure in the shinobi world. Though he hadn't expected to be at the center of such power struggles, he understood that it was now his responsibility to navigate these complex relationships, all while keeping the future of the world in mind.

Naruto's rejection of the marriage proposals was as firm as it was unexpected. His refusal was not due to disrespect but rooted in his personal convictions—he valued genuine feelings over arrangements, especially when it came to such intimate decisions. He had never entertained the idea of polygamy and, given the circumstances, the thought of marrying someone he wasn't close to felt unnatural to him.

"I can't accept such marriage proposals," he said, his voice resolute. "We're not close enough for such a thing, and I've never considered polygamy. I'm sorry, but please choose something else."

The room fell quiet at his bold stance. Tsunade and Kakashi, though aware that rejecting such proposals could cause a massive issue, did not intervene. They both knew Naruto's stance on matters of the heart—he was a person of deep conviction and sincerity. To force him into something he didn't want would have created far more problems than it would solve.

Tsunade, ever the pragmatic leader, quickly stepped in to salvage the situation. "How about he takes your granddaughter as a follower? Maybe they'll grow closer over time, and who knows, they might fall in love and marry naturally." Her suggestion was designed to ease the tension, but she couldn't entirely erase the discomfort in the room.

The Mizukage, however, seemed to be reassessing the situation, understanding that Naruto's refusal was final. She turned her gaze to Kakashi, a shift in her demeanor. "What about you, Kakashi Hatake?" she asked, her tone now more focused and calculating. "You're handsome, smart, talented, and so closely aligned with Naruto. You might be a better match."

Kakashi hadn't anticipated such a proposition. It was a turn he hadn't seen coming, but given the Mizukage's charm and boldness, it was clear she was now directing her attention toward him. He considered the offer carefully, recognizing the intricacies of the situation. This wasn't simply about personal connections—it was a move that could influence the power dynamics between villages.

"I would be happy to accept your proposal, Lord Mizukage," Kakashi replied, his response calm and poised. His smile, something rare for him, now graced his face as he finally removed his mask. For the first time in decades, Kakashi allowed himself to be fully seen, without the shadows of his father's legacy looming over him.

Mei, satisfied with Kakashi's response, glanced around the room, taking in the shifting atmosphere. But it was clear that the focus had now moved on to the other outstanding matters.

Ay, the Raikage, had not been pleased with the situation, and his pride was certainly bruised. His daughter had been rejected, and now, he would have to accept her becoming a follower of someone else. Still, he trusted Naruto and felt somewhat relieved by the endorsement from Bee. However, the situation wasn't ideal, and he had hoped for a more personal resolution.

"I'm fine with the change," Ay said, though his voice lacked the usual enthusiasm. "But you still haven't answered the question about the barrier." His tone suggested that he was still waiting for clarification on the larger plan.

Tsunade, listening intently, had her own reservations. She could sense there was something more behind Ay's request, but she couldn't place exactly what it was. There was no clear indication of any ulterior motives, but it was hard not to feel that something was being left unsaid. "Are they planning to use his chakra for something else?" she wondered, unable to find a concrete answer.

Despite her thoughts, Tsunade nodded to Naruto, signaling that he should proceed with Ay's request. After all, a solid defensive strategy would be critical for the villages' survival in the face of impending threats.

Naruto, understanding the importance of the situation, accepted their terms without hesitation. With that, the tension in the room began to dissipate. The marriage proposals, though momentarily disruptive, were now set aside. The Kage could finally move forward, refocusing on the critical issues at hand.

With the hard part behind them, the meeting shifted back to the research discussions, as they began to outline how they would collaborate. The focus now was on combining their knowledge and resources to tackle the challenges ahead, utilizing Naruto's ideas and the new strategies they had discussed. Despite the earlier tensions, the group had made significant progress, and the path forward seemed clearer than ever.

The Kage were now unified, not just in purpose, but in the realization that they had to work together—whether through alliances, shared resources, or, in some cases, personal connections. The world was at a turning point, and the decisions made here would shape the future of the shinobi nations.