Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or any of the characters, nor did I profit from this material in any way however I do own all original characters featured in this story.

Chapter 1: The Life I Choose

Eden breathed a small sigh of relief as the last customer left the shop. Her co-worker Yui had left an hour earlier. It had been an usually busy and extensive Thursday in Tokyo, Japan. Although it was mid-April, many people would come into the Shaved Ice Cream shop during their breaks to indulge in the sweet dessert before heading back to their endeavors.

They had gotten quite a lot of business lately and she was more than grateful to close up shop. Between school and her job there often wasn't much time for her to do anything else. Walking up the street towards the direction of her apartment, she couldn't help but miss her family back in America. They weren't too happy about her decision to attend college in another country but after seeing how adamant she was about the subject, they had no choice but to respect her wishes. She'd come to Japan as a foreign exchange student studying Art and Music at the University of Tokyo.

"It might not have been the best decision I ever made now that I think back on it" she thought.

Not that living in Japan was terrible or anything, it just wasn't what she was expected. AT ALL.

Being a mixed race child of African-American, Samoan, and Indian descent with a mane of thick curly hair, a light mocha skin tone and bluish-green eyes, she had known she would stand out among the people of Japan. However, she had not anticipated the attention and intense scrutiny that was often placed on her here. She was frequently bombarded with criticism and stares on a daily basis.

Not to mention all the times a stranger approached her with the intention of taking a photo with her or how her hair was touched and grabbed without her permission. Poking and prodding her as if she were a rare exotic animal. The population in Japan was roughly 98.5% Japanese, so of course it was a rarity to see someone who looked even remotely similar to her in the nation. Despite this, it was still a very unpleasant experience that often left her feeling like an object rather than a person.

But this was the life she choose. Well, at least for the next few years.

The chill of the night air was enough to pull her out of her brooding over her situation.

"Ugh I can't wait to just lay in bed and sleep. It feels like I've been awake for days."

Sluggishly walking into the lobby of the apartment complex where she was staying, Eden breathed a sigh of relief.

"Long day at the shop Eden?" asked Ms Okada. Ms Okada worked at the front desk for the complex. If the resident had a complaint they would come to her about it. She was like a manger more or less. Over the past year, she and the old woman had become very fond of one another, she reminded Eden of a wise, generous grandmother.

"You have no idea" Eden responded as she continued on to her living quarters. The dreadful walk up the stairs long and drawn out.

Turning the key in the lock, she stepped inside her small apartment. Closing the door behind her, she dragged her feet heading towards her bedroom.

Dropping her backpack unceremoniously, she plopped down face first into the bed with a loud groan. This was beginning to be a normal ritual everyday after a long day of school and an even longer day of work. She was mentally and emotionally drained while her muscles ached.

It couldn't be helped unfortunately, she absolutely determined to stay on top or her responsibilities and if feeling worn out everyday was necessity then so be it. She had worked too hard to get where she was and she wasn't going to quit just because things got hard.

She was mapping out her future and setting the grounds for her success. The tiredness and ailing muscles only served as motivation for her resolve. As everything would come together in the end. She had her life everything planned out.

xxxxXXXXxxxx

"Come on Eden we're gonna be late!"

"I'm coming! I'm coming! I can only so fast, my feet feel like crap you know. You didn't go to classes then work for 6 hours yesterday so shut up".

"If we're lucky enough, we might just be able to make the end of the meeting." giggled Sara.

"This is like the third one we've had this month, but I can't help but think this one is more important than the others" mused Jaime completely unsure.

The entire college was required to attend a mandatory assembly in view of the fact that a board member was supposed to be present. Classes were cancelled for remainder of the day because of it. According to the rumors, the president of the university was absolutely beside himself with anxiety. Apparently this guy was a big deal if the whole school was expected to turn out for his presence.

"I don't know him but I hear he's like this super hot businessman who practically shits gold bricks."

"He might be loaded but I don't think he can shit gold bricks Sara" Eden answered skeptically.

"You never know man, Japanese men are a whole different breed than American men. It's like they're born rich".

"That sounds more like a stereotype than an actual fact you moron!" exclaimed Jaime. Laughter promptly erupted from Eden as she watched her friends bicker. They'd been together since they had met in elementary school and they were inseparable ever since. It was only out of love and loyalty that they would want to come to Japan to prolong the friendship before the inevitability of life began to slowly rip them apart. Without them she would feel considerably lonely, plus watching them bicker was always the best form of entertainment for her. No one else could make her laugh like the pair did.

Jaime Hainey was the eldest of trio at 20 years being 5 months older than Sara. Mature, caring, and trustworthy, one could confide in her their innermost feelings without the fear of being shunned away. Despite Jaime and Sara being close friends, the pair were polar opposites. Sara Logan was fun-loving, wild, and very high spirited. She was always the life of the party and she knew it. There had been many a time where Sara's antics had gotten them in a great deal of trouble. And lastly, there was her, Eden Nanai.

Hurriedly shuffling in the building, they made their way into the buzzing assembly hall to find seats. As of now, there were the only three foreigners attended Tokyo University, so it was normal for them to feel the eyes of others on them as they sat down. Obviously hating being stared at Sara grumbled, "Geez, they act like we're aliens or something."

The hall was filled to the brim with students and professors alike who were chattering away with excitement. Everyone seemed to be very eager and impatient for the meeting to be started. Whether it was because they had a guest at the college or the fact that there were not classes today and people were ready to go home Eden hadn't the slightest clue. School was usually mellow most of the time, now everyone was acting everyone was acting like frigid, panicking messes...well not everyone. Just in front of her, some girls were busy gossiping and reapplying their lip gloss and checking their hair in small hand held mirrors.

"I can't believe Itachi-sama's actually visiting the school!" said one girl.

"I know right! He's so dreamy" gushed another.

"He could do anything he wanted to me."

What the hell? Did they even know what they were saying? Eden almost couldn't believe what she was hearing. Sure it wasn't any of her business but it was common knowledge that the majority of the girls in the school were shallow and superficial at most but might just be a new low. Who in their right mind would willing to give themselves to a man that they hadn't even met before and just who was this guy that was making young women completely disregard their self respect so callously. The whole idea was just so bizarre.

"So when are they going to start this meeting already, this room is packed and we've been sitting here for twenty freaking minutes I'm bored out of my mind." Sara remarked complained irritably.

Rolling her eyes Jaime spoke with an exasperated sigh, "Everything about school is boring to you, it's a wonder you even decided to attend college considering how much you hated high school."

"That's because college is a scam Jai, it's a waste of time and money. At least in high school its practically free. In college, you basically spend years dealing with stress and anxiety over grueling coursework. Then in the end, all you get is a piece of paper and a shit load of debt that's nearly impossible to pay back."

"While you do kinda have a point, unfortunately people need those little papers to get a job, have a nice house, and basically survive Sara." added Eden.

"Well yeah sure, we might need degrees but we're only getting them to work until we die a miserable death from old age. And god knows the economy doesn't pay people enough, people are barely getting by as it is. Plus, I heard of a conspiracy theory where the wealthy and elite people of the world were like reptile people from another planet bent on world domination".

Jaime gave her a questioning look, "You would be dumb enough to believe something like that."

"Okay wow, and here I thought you guys actually cared about my well-being."

"We do care about your well-being, but I care about your mental state more. You're the only person I know who claims to be sexually attracted to tacos."

"Look, I told you guys that in confidence not so you can throw it in face and use it against me."

"You're so weird." Eden laughed.

"Well nobody wants to be normal. Normal is boring. You need some excitement or wild shit to happen in your life once in awhile. Otherwise you're not really living are you?"

"Whoa, deep."

"You might just die young if you keep it up."

"Whatever Mother Teresa, you could learn a thing or two, like getting out that stick that's stuck up your…

"AHEM, attention students and professors of Tokyo University, could you turn your attention towards the podium please." boomed the voice of the headmaster through the overhead speaker.

The room soon became as quiet as a tomb. All noise had ceased immediately. One could hear pen drop in the massive hall, as all the attention was focused towards the large stage. Only then, did president Makoto Gonokami continue to speak.

"Since its establishment in 1877, we at Tokyo University have prided ourselves on being the most unparalleled, prestigious educational institution in the…

"Oh here we go, boy he sure knows how to put em to sleep" mused Eden as she began slouching down in her seat in an effort to find some type of comfort. She could tell that he would drag this meeting out like he always did the others, especially now since there was a guest involved. She always seemed to zone out at these things for whatever reason. It was too tedious to focus and listen on for such a long period of time. The sound of clapping registered in her ears as she looked up to see the president had turned his attention towards the right side of the stage where a small group of three were coming up the steps.

Eden's heart constricted as she laid eyes on the "visitor", who was flanked by two bodyguards. On the platform now stood a man at least 6'8 in height. He had a broad masculine jawline, high cheekbones, and smooth skin with arched eyebrows over deep piercing exotic red eyes. His hair was jet-black in color pulled back into a low ponytail long bangs framing his face. The man's attire consisted of an expensive looking suit jacket with a burgundy dress shirt and black slacks. One could tell was wealthy just from his appearance and the way he carried himself. He looked as if he was gliding onto the stage.

It was probably the reason why everyone in the room seemed do taken with him, not to mention the reaction from the female students who looked as if they'd fall over in their seats. People were swooning at the very sight of him, their eyes glazed over in a lust filled expression. Clearly they had some knowledge of who this man was and obviously he was very well-known throughout the University, just not to her. Had this been any ordinary man, his visit would not have caused such a ruckus among the school.

Gracefully taking his seat in a large chair that closely resembled a throne, he sat there elegantly like a king would. Still no one said a word, they only watched him in awe. He seemed so regal among the people, it was almost daunting.

"Ladies and Gentleman, as you now know, Mr. Uchiha has taken time out of his very busy schedule to grace us with his presence. I would ask that you show your gratitude and deference towards him doing this time. He is a long-time respected board member of the school who oversees its policies and success. Any questions you have will be answered after the address."

Stepping aside, another man (obviously a representative for the visitor) began speaking into the microphone reading from a prepared speech address to the students about overcoming adversity and creating a path to success. Basically all the usual bullshit that had been recited a million times.

Leaning over Sara whispered "So what do you think?" her eyes full of curiosity.

Crossing her arms in uncertainty, Eden responded "I think he's doing more than shitting gold bricks, he's probably the king at it. Do you see that freaking suit?"

"Yeah no kidding. What kind of guy doesn't read his own speech?"

"If he was just going to give us a speech like that then he should've just stayed home."

Eden narrowed her eyes at the man. She was never one to judge anyone, especially if she'd never met them but she'd be lying if she said she wasn't a tad bit bothered by people like him. By people like him, she meant the wealthy affluent group of people who always tried to preach to the poor and middle class like their words would automatically change their lives for the better. All the while contributing nothing to make living conditions better or just plain making it worse.

Just talking about success was not going to create success, there was a lot of hard work that had to be done first. But the idea of hard work leading to success is not always the case, as there aren't many opportunities available to help people survive the hardships of life. It was difficult to make a decent living nowadays. A great majority of the world were not born with silver spoons in their mouths or a head start and the rich just did not understand that.

Concluding the lecture the rep asked, "Are there any questions or concerns that would like to be acknowledged at this present time regarding the discussion?" His eyes scanning the crowd for volunteers. Unsurprisingly none wanted to draw any kind of attention towards themselves for fear of embarrassing the headmaster or angering the guests. Everyone just sat quietly keeping their thoughts to themselves. Everything quiet and pleasant that is until…

"I have a concern I would like to voice" vocalized a confident Eden who had her hand raised.

There were gasps of shock throughout the room as everyone in the room had turned and was now staring at her. Jaime and Sara both gave each other equally wide eyed looks of surprise. Meanwhile the headmaster regarded her with a menacing glare meant to intimidate.

Once spokesperson's gaze reached hers, she had also noticed that she had managed to grab the attention of the very man who had not spoken since he made his presence known. He was watching passively in a way that made her heart faster. Just to have him looking at her was more than a little nerve racking. Part of her wished that she should've stayed quiet, yet the stubborn part of her refused to back down. She had something to say and they would damn well hear it.

"You have the floor Ms..?"

"Eden… Eden Nanai."

Giving her one last dismissive, disparaging look glance he gathered his paper into one hand and said "Proceed".

Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, she clenched her fist and opened her mouth.

"What was really the purpose of giving that speech to us, for encouragement? Personally I've heard the very same speech from others all throughout my life and it hasn't changed anything. There is still a lot poverty and economic inequality going on that continues to be overlooked by the wealthy. You can't just come and say "All adversity can be overcome with hard work" because it can't be! There is a system in place designed to keep the rich, rich and the poor, poor. We as a people can't just stand by and ignore that!"

"Success is earned not given Ms. Nanoi, you cannot be exact to be successful without putting in the work necessary child", the rep answered disdainfully.

"There are people who've worked their whole lives practically slaving and have absolutely nothing to show for it. Meanwhile there are people who just sit behind a desk and bark orders at people." There she had said it, but she didn't mean for it to sound as harsh as it did. God forbid if they thought she was being purposely disrespectful because she wasn't.

However, Eden eyes had unconsciously shifted over toward the man still sitting quietly on the chair giving the very clear impression that she was in fact referring to their silent guest. The digg was not lost on the crowd however as gasps of surprise and disbelief filled the room. The whispers began almost instantly and the room had suddenly acquired a tense uneasy air about it.

Jaime and Sara themselves were stunned into complete silence, jaws dropped, unsure of what to do. When the spokesman offered no rebuttal, Eden slowly sank back down to her seat. The room was quiet for a short moment until the principal thanked the guests for coming and bowed to them respectfully. Afterwords, a quick dismissal was given to the students who began to fill out neatly.

Having recovered from their speechlessness her friends immediately started laying into her.

"EDEN AVERY NANOI! What the hell was that?", Jaime questioned determined to get an answer.

Shrugging nonchalantly, she replied "I don't know, I just felt like speaking my mind. No one else was gonna do it so I did. It's really not a big deal."

"Dude you are a fucking revolutionary for that!" Sara exclaimed while hugging Eden. "Standing up to the patriarchy like that when nobody else wanted to!"

Brows drawing down, Jaime scolded Sara immediately. "Don't encourage her! E, you do know that there will be consequences behind that right? The headmaster's gonna freakin flip on you for embarrassing him. He already borderline hates us. You could get suspended or expelled."

"For what? Speaking my mind? If he has a problem with it then he'll let me know Jaime. Until then, I'm not worried. Besides it's Friday and we have no classes, he's got a whole weekend to forget about it. Come Monday, I should be off the hook."

"That's if you get out of the building without being seen first." snickered Sara.

"Come on, hurry up, walk faster" muttered Eden. The three were currently trying to power walk out of the building without being seen by any professors or the headmaster himself. Practically skipping through the halls. However a voice called out to them.

"Ms Nanoi, may I have a word with you in my office?"

Shit.