Sunagakure, the Sand Shinobi Village.
At the entrance of the village, there was a well-known restaurant famed for its roasted camel—a delicacy unique to the Wind Country. Gaara led Naruto to this very place.
"Gaara, I know Ichiraku Ramen in Konoha is famous," Naruto said, looking around with a hint of curiosity, "but let me tell you, this roasted camel restaurant in Sunagakure is also legendary. Today, you'll finally let me try it!"
Gaara smiled faintly. "There's no better time than now. I want you to taste it yourself."
Naruto's eyes lit up. "Oh? Really? I didn't know this place was that famous."
Gaara gestured to the restaurant's entrance. "It's not just famous—it's a staple. You'll see why."
They stepped inside. Naruto glanced around, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Hmm… it hasn't been renovated much, has it?"
A passing waiter, overhearing him, chuckled politely. "We are planning a renovation, but things have been hectic lately. Sir, you… how did you know we were going to redecorate?"
Naruto merely smiled lightly, his eyes twinkling.
Gaara studied Naruto for a moment, then tilted his head with a knowing smile. "I've brought you here before, haven't I?"
Naruto nodded, recalling the memories.
Gaara shook his head softly. "Ah… yes. Of course."
Some of the memories Naruto had projected into Gaara's mind during past events had not fully imprinted themselves. Gaara hadn't realized it at first, but now he remembered the visit in a past life.
At that moment, the waiter nearest to Gaara froze, eyes widening in astonishment.
"Master Kazekage… you are here?" he stammered, before rushing inside to call out. "Boss! The Kazekage has arrived!"
The announcement spread instantly. Diners turned their heads, and one by one, stood to greet Gaara.
"Kazekage-sama!"
"Fourth Kazekage-sama!"
"Gaara-sama, you've come to eat roasted camel too!"
The shop buzzed with energy, but it was a single voice that drew everyone's attention further.
"Wait… standing beside Gaara-sama is… Naruto from the Leaf Village!"
"Really? That's Naruto!"
"I've seen him fight during the war! It's definitely him!"
Excitement rippled through the restaurant. People who had never seen the battlefield, who had only heard tales of the hero of the Ninja World War, now had the chance to behold him in person.
The crowd outside swelled as word spread, villagers pressing closer to get a glimpse of the legendary shinobi.
"Wow! It's Naruto! I have to see him!"
"Naruto! Naruto!"
"Let's go! Let's go see him!"
Despite the chaos, Naruto smiled, waving to the villagers. His warm demeanor calmed many, though the sheer number of onlookers made it nearly impossible to move freely.
Gaara, sitting beside him at a reserved table, pinched the bridge of his nose. On one hand, he was genuinely pleased that Naruto was so admired. On the other, he was a Kazekage trying to dine peacefully, and the crowd made it nearly impossible.
Even the restaurant owner was delighted. Hosting two legendary figures at once—the Kazekage and the hero of the ninja world—would surely elevate the restaurant's prestige. However, the entrance had become completely congested. Waiters struggled to maintain order while still serving tea and water.
Gaara knew he couldn't allow this situation to persist. Quietly, he condensed a sand clone atop the restaurant's roof, which quickly coordinated with the village's defense forces. Within moments, order was restored, and the crowd was managed efficiently, allowing Gaara and Naruto to finally enjoy their meal in peace.
Gaara leaned back, smiling apologetically. "I'm sorry. It turned into such a scene just because I invited you to dine with me."
Naruto chuckled. "It's alright. The people of Sunagakure are… very enthusiastic."
Gaara nodded, then signaled the owner to bring out the signature dishes. The roasted camel arrived steaming and aromatic, accompanied by a variety of local delicacies. Gaara gestured politely, inviting Naruto to start.
Naruto tore into the camel meat with gusto. "Yeah! Not bad at all—it smells just as good as I remember!"
The owner laughed heartily. "As long as Naruto-sama enjoys it, you and the Kazekage-sama are welcome here anytime. Come often, and I'll give you a discount!"
Naruto grinned. "Sounds perfect. We'll be sure to visit more often, Kazekage-sama."
Gaara waved the offer away, a faint smile on his lips.
"You really enjoy your food, don't you?" Gaara asked, observing his friend.
Naruto nodded, chewing happily. "Of course. Every time I came to Sunagakure in my previous life, you dragged me here. The taste hasn't changed, so I remember it well."
Hearing Naruto speak of his past life, Gaara's eyes softened. "I heard you went to the moon a few days ago? The Hokage-sama informed us as well, requesting we double the village's readiness. That news nearly reached Konoha before you returned."
Naruto nodded between bites. "Yes, I went to the moon, mainly to gather information… learn about certain matters."
Gaara leaned forward, curiosity piqued. "Can you tell me?"
Naruto smiled. "There's nothing that can't be shared with you."
He recounted everything—the presence of the Ōtsutsuki, the dangers they posed, and the steps he had taken to safeguard both Earth and the shinobi world. Gaara listened intently, absorbing every detail.
After a moment, he exhaled deeply. Naruto noticed and asked, concerned, "What's wrong? You seem worried."
Gaara shook his head. "No… it's not that. I was just thinking about the debate back in the village regarding its future direction. Baki and others are focused on economic development, believing that with the war over, the villagers should enjoy peace and prosperity."
"Yet Baki isn't opposed to joint training. He still trusts in you."
"The other faction is represented by Elder Yura. They think differently. They come from the older generation, believing that peace between villages can never last. They insist we must continue strengthening our forces to prevent future wars over resources or territory."
Naruto nodded thoughtfully, chewing on a piece of camel meat.
Gaara continued, "After hearing your words today, I realized your goal hasn't changed. You've been preparing, gathering strength, always considering what is best. Even I feel ashamed. As your friend… I struggle to manage all the differing voices within my village."
Naruto placed a hand on Gaara's shoulder and smiled. "Who says that? You're His Highness Kazekage, commander-in-chief of the Ninja Alliance. Don't let their worries get to you. Opinions are normal. People fear the unknown, and the future is uncertain."
He leaned closer. "That's precisely why we're valuable. We guide them, ensuring they don't lose their way. Future generations will thank us for it."
Gaara nodded solemnly. Raising his glass, he clinked it with Naruto's.
After finishing the hearty meal, the two friends left the restaurant side by side, laughter and conversation filling the air. To avoid another crowd scene, Gaara led Naruto along the high walls of Sunagakure, enjoying the view and the evening breeze.
"This time, apart from delivering Kankurō's puppet, are you really just here to see me?" Gaara asked softly.
Naruto hummed, nodding. Gaara's heart warmed at the thoughtfulness of his friend, feeling the depth of their bond.
"By the way… is Shukaku doing well?" Naruto asked.
Gaara chuckled. "He's staying in the desert, enjoying himself. Only a few dozen miles away. You should be able to sense him if you concentrate."
Naruto closed his eyes briefly. As he attuned to the nearby chakra, he detected Shukaku's presence, distant yet unmistakable. The tailed beast seemed uninterested in interacting, likely due to Kurama's presence within Naruto. Those two always argued when they met.
Sitting together atop the high wall, Gaara and Naruto continued to converse, sharing thoughts, memories, and laughter. Eventually, Naruto stood.
"I'll come visit again when I have the time," he said, bowing slightly to Gaara.
Gaara nodded, a smile lingering on his face.
With a sudden hiss, Naruto vanished, leaving Gaara gazing after him, feeling both warmth and anticipation for their next meeting.
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