Notes: Guest reviewers: your questions will be answered as the story progresses. :) Otherwise, use PM so I can reply privately, please. Thank you!
In this chapter the kids are 10 years old and Itachi is 16. I also made Shisui the same age as Itachi to serve my purposes.
Enjoy!
Half Agony, Half Hope
Chapter 3
Three years later...
''Come on, Sasuke, wake up! Breakfast is ready.''
Sasuke groaned as his brother jumped up and down on his bed and pulled off his bedsheet. The happy blond then opened the curtains, making the young Uchiha squeeze his eyes shut painfully.
Where had his cute, meek and quiet brother gone?
''Mother made her special red-bean stuffed bread, so come on.'' The blond had gone back to the bed and was peering down his grumpy brother with a wide smile.
Sasuke released a sigh but smiled fondly. This Naruto was cute too. He just didn't understand how he could have so much energy in the morning.
''Fine, fine... I'm coming.''
The two brothers went downstairs and were greeted, as usual, by Mikoto's warm smile and Fugaku's small nod. Itachi soon joined them as well and the family ate together with small, happy chatter.
Naruto definitely would not have thought this possible a few years ago, but now he truly felt comfortable at this table, around these people. He felt like he belonged there, no matter how different he looked from the rest of his family. Naruto had not stopped being grateful every day since his adoption.
After the table was cleared, everybody got ready for the day. As they prepared, there were a few knocks on the door. Itachi went to answer, stating he was expecting Shisui for a mission. The boys followed him to the door, ready to leave for the Academy.
When Itachi opened the door, Shisui's gentle smile turned stiff when he saw Naruto. The blond noticed it, but refused to let it affect his good mood. He did not expect everyone in the clan to accept him, and he was happy with just being treated with respect. He bowed slightly to the teen and smiled.
''Good morning Shisui-san,'' Naruto said putting on his backpack. Sasuke waved at the teen, still a little drowsy from sleep. He was not a morning person.
''Good morning,'' Shisui said evenly, then turned to his friend. ''Before we head out I wanted to drop my invitation for my sixteenth birthday next week,'' Shisui said as he handed the card to his friend. ''You're all invited,'' he added, throwing another quick glance at Naruto. Sasuke frowned and grabbed his brother's hand.
''Let's go,'' Sasuke said, pulling the blond along.
''Eh? Oh, okay,'' Naruto turned to Shisui again as he was brought outside. ''Thank you for the invitation!'' He exclaimed, waving at him with his free hand.
''Thanks,'' Itachi said simply. ''I'll give this to my mom and I'll be right back.''
The two teens walked silently to join the rest of their team. Itachi's mind was racing, thinking about his friend. They had grown close, especially in the last two years. Shisui was very intelligent and extremely talented. He was also a very kind person and advocator of peace. He was one of the few Uchihas out there that Itachi knew for sure who was against the coup. He was not vocal about it unless they were talking privately, of course. Still, Itachi could not understand why the teen didn't seem to like Naruto. It had always bothered him, but he had never really asked why. At first, he figured that time would clear the prejudices his friend might have about Naruto, but it didn't seem to be the case...
Now, however, Itachi was determined to find out the truth.
''How is your father, Shisui?''
''He's good and as in a good shape as ever,'' Shisui smiled, his demeanour quite different without Naruto around.
''I heard he was seeing someone. How is that going?'' Shisui shook his hand and sighed.
''Didn't work out, as expected. He just can't get over mom. Every now and then he tries to reconnect with a woman, but every time he does, he just ends up comparing her with mom and ends up being disappointed. It's been ten years now... It's a shame, really. He'll never be truly happy again.''
''The Kyuubi attack was a terrible thing,'' Itachi said carefully.
Shisui stopped walking and raised a comical brow at his best friend.
''You're not as subtle as you think you are, Itachi,'' he said with a chuckle. ''What's your point, exactly?''
''Sorry,'' Itachi said sheepishly. ''I just wonder if this is why you don't seem to like Naruto.'' Now both Shisui's brows were high up on his forehead. He blinked once, then carefully looked around to see if there were people near that could hear them. The subject was taboo, after all. He sighed in relief; they were alone.
''It's not. Naruto is just a jailer. I'd be stupid to blame him for the Kyuubi's attack. Only close-minded ignorants would think that way. He's a victim just like the rest of us.''
Itachi's shoulders felt infinitely lighter. He had always deeply respected Shisui, but there had always been this doubt that he might not be as understanding and tolerant as he made himself look. Now he was reassured, but still very confused.
''Then why...'' Itachi trailed off, no longer certain of how he should phrase the question.
''I don't dislike Naruto himself,'' Shisui started calmly, ''but I am very wary of what he could become. You know I object to the coup and Naruto is what could turn the coup into an outright massacre of the village. He's just a kid and a pretty fragile one too; any kid would be after going through what he has... it also makes him more vulnerable to our clan's hunger for power. I heard your father's been training him too. I just... He might just be an innocent kid now, but...'' Shisui stopped himself, unwilling to label the little boy as a murderer quite yet.
''I see,'' Itachi smiled in understanding. He put a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder. ''I understand your concern, but let me reassure you. For one thing, Naruto definitely isn't as fragile as you think. If you gave him a chance, you would see what I see in him. Also, don't worry too much about my father's training. He is still quite young and is far from having any sort of real grasp on the Kyuubi's chakra.''
''Really?'' Shisui had to admit he was surprised by that.
''Yes,'' Itachi said with a nod. ''He has communicated perhaps a few times only with the beast... though it mostly consisted of death threats on the Kyuubi's part. So far, the only thing Naruto can do is draw chakra from the beast when he is completely drained out of his own reserve. The Kyuubi allows this purely because he would suffer along with Naruto if he didn't. Every time Naruto tries to summon more chakra for more powerful jutsus, Naruto ends up losing control and father has to place a blocking seal on him, and it starts all over again. Naruto has admitted several times that he doesn't like using the demon's chakra. Father says it's for his own protection of course and hasn'y spoken of the coup, and Naruto tries for father's sake, but it is fruitless so far.''
''I see... but the problem still remains; he is trying to control it and for your father too. He is doing it because he is told by the clan.''
''I don't think you understand what I'm trying to say,'' Itachi said, smiling somewhat teasingly. ''As long as Naruto doesn't feel comfortable with the mere idea of using the Kyuubi's chakra, he'll never be able to control it. He will need to find a purpose for that. A purpose he believes in.'' Shisui was still skeptical.
''I'm sure when your father will speak of the coup,'' Shisui countered, ''it will probably motivate him. He'll be able to get revenge for what he's endured by the village.'' Itachi sighed.
''You are completely misjudging Naruto. There is not a single trace of malice or resentment in that child. But don't take my word for it; talk to him and you will see for yourself.''
OoOoO
''Sasuke, are you okay?'' Naruto asked worriedly. The young Uchiha had not let go of Naruto's hand and his eyes were still set in a frown. Sasuke stopped in his hurried stride but kept glaring at the ground.
''I don't like the way Shisui looks at you,'' Sasuke admitted through his teeth. Naruto blinked and raised a confused eyebrow.
''But why does he bother you more than others?'' There were plenty of people who looked at Naruto the wrong way, and much angrier than Shisui as well. Not that Sasuke liked those people either, but he always got particularly upset when it was Shisui.
''Because my brother likes him... it pisses me off that he likes someone like that.''
''Shisui's a good person,'' Naruto countered patiently. Sasuke frowned at him, clearly not satisfied with Naruto's statement.
''You are a good person. So anyone who doesn't like you can't be one.'' Naruto laughed and patted Sasuke's shoulder.
''You're too severe on others,'' Naruto reprimanded.
''And you're not severe enough,'' Sasuke retorted. Naruto smiled, calling a truce, and the two continued to walk to class.
When Sasuke saw the Academy at the end of the road, he let out a small sigh. The year following Naruto's official adoption had been very tough. Tension in the village had risen all of a sudden and had reached its peak on Naruto's eighth birthday, when a handful of particularly vicious villagers had come into the Uchiha compound to vandalize their home with hateful messages in paint. His father, brother and other clansmen had stopped them before they had done much damaged, but it had also caused a good fight between them.
The dynamics at the Academy had shifted as well at that time. At first, most kids had ignored the new change and left Naruto alone. But then, following that particular event, some random kids –undoubtedly the vandals' children- had started bullying Naruto again. Sasuke had punched the living lights out of them and got suspended for it. Predictably, the kids who had bullied Naruto hadn't gotten punished and that had left a bitter taste in Sasuke's mouth. Regardless, it had been worth it because no one had dared to speak ill out loud of Naruto again.
This year was also starting to look different. A couple of the scums who were more obvious about their dislike for Naruto had ended up repeating the year. Sasuke wasn't surprised; pathetic, bitter people were usually the weakest. Their teacher was also different; Sasuke liked Iruka a thousand times more than Mizuki, who had taught the last two years at the Academy. He had clearly been biased and didn't treat Naruto fairly. Now Iruka was their homeroom teacher again and he was the opposite. He was a fair and kind teacher. All of that had changed the atmosphere of their group more positively.
Still, Sasuke sighed again, their classmates mostly avoided them. Sasuke could honestly care less, but he knew it was bothering his brother. Naruto wanted to make friends, but the others didn't allow it.
He clenched his fist angrily.
''Sasuke...,'' Naruto said softly, demanding that his brother meet his eyes. Sasuke did and he suddenly felt guilty when he saw the blond's saddened look. ''You need to stop being angry all the time... I know it's because you want to protect me, but I don't like seeing you unhappy like this. I can protect myself too now, you know?'' He added with a small reassuring smile.
''I know... I'll try... for your sake,'' Sasuke finally said. ''But it's going to be hard.''
''I know, you have such a bad temper,'' the blond said teasingly. Sasuke smirked.
''At least I'm not an airhead.''
''Hey! I'm not!''
''Oh yeah? So you didn't forget about today's test then?'' Naruto's eyes widened.
''Oh crap!''
''I knew it.'' Sasuke rolled his eyes. ''You'll be fine. We studied together two days ago, remember?''
''Yeah... I hope I didn't forget everything,'' Naruto said distractedly, scratching his cheek with a meek finger as he tried to recall all the material. Sasuke chuckled.
OoOoO
At the Uchiha's Police Head Quarters
''The thief who stole from Mr. Kawaii's Jewly shop has been arrested. The investigation is finished. We are certain he acted alone. Here's the report.'' Uchiha Inabi handed the papers to his superior. Fugaku took the report and scanned it quickly. He nodded in approval.
''Good work, as usual,'' the clan head and chief of police said. Inabi glanced behind him to make sure he had closed the door, then looked back at Fugaku.
''Is your son making any progress?'' Fugaku narrowed his eyes at the question.
''You are referring to Naruto,'' Fugaku deduced from the younger man's unpleasant tone. ''He's not progressing as fast as I would like, but that is not surprising. He is still quite young.''
''Tch.'' Inabi wasn't satisfied with the answer. ''You are too soft on that brat. You should intensify his training. He won't be any help in the coup if you keep raising him in the way you are now.''
''Are you questioning your clan head's judgement?'' Fugaku spat warningly through his teeth, Sharingan suddenly active to further emphasize his anger. Inabi flinched and took a careful step back. He swallowed thickly, but strengthened his resolve and continued to argue his point.
''I heard that the Kazekage has made his son turn into his village's most powerful weapon,'' he said with a calmer tone, not wanting to incite the wrath of his superior. ''That kid is the same age as the Kyuubi's jailer and only has the one-tail. Imagine what-''
''The Ichibi's Jinchuriki is also extremely unstable and has killed members of his own family,'' Fugaku interrupted with with a firm tone. ''If I raised and trained Naruto the same way the Kazekage does his own son, then Naruto would kill anyone who even looked at him the wrong way... and that would include you, Inabi. Is that what you want?''
Inabi gulped and looked down the the ground, gritting his teeth.
''I thought so,'' Fugaku said calmly. ''I am merely ensuring that Naruto is loyal to us and will serve our purpose without any unfortunate incident.'' He sighed and classified the report Inabi had given him. ''You may leave.''
Inabi nodded silently, eyes still downward. He walked to the door and put his hand on the doorknob, but turned one last time.
''You used to call him the Jinchuuriki... now you call him by his name. Don't get too attached, Fugaku-sama,'' Inabi said before leaving.
Fugaku narrowed his eyes, piercing the retreating man's back with his fierce glare.
OoOoO
Back at the Acdemy
''Alright, kids! Today we are starting a new research project,'' Iruka announced as he wrote the topic on the board. His students started whispering among themselves for ideas. ''However for this particular team project, things are going to be a little different.'' This seemed to catch his students' interested and they all turned their attention back to him. ''I've already drawn names randomly and come up with teams for you.''
''What?! No way!'' Ino exclaimed, throwing her arms in the air dramatically. ''I hope I'm with Sasuke-kun,'' she muttered sulkily to herself.
''That really sucks, Iruka sensei!'' Another student whined.
''Stop complaining!'' Iruka replied, vein poping on his forehead in annoyance. ''You won't chose whom you're going to work with once you graduate, so you better get used to it.''
Sasuke pressed his lips tightly together. This was the first time they were forced into teams. He looked at his brother sitting next to him worriedly. The blond definitely looked uneasy although he was trying to hide it. Naruto noticed his stare and smiled reassuringly.
''I'll be fine even if we're not together. This is a good opportunity to make friends,'' the blond said.
''Hn.'' Sasuke was not convinced at all.
''Alright, here are the teams. First, Ino, Hinata, Sasuke and Shino.''
''Tch,'' Sasuke frowned.
''I hate you!'' Sakura whispered angrily to her blond friend/rival. The blond girl stuck out her tongue.
''Must be destiny.''
''Like hell it is.''
''Next, Shikamaru, Naruto, Kiba and Sakura.''
Iruka continued to name students until all teams were formed. The task was simple; students had to research and present an important figure in the village. Most teams were assigned either one of the four Hokages or one of the legendary Sannin. Naruto's team had been assigned to the First Hokage while Sasuke's team was researching the Fourth. Their sensei gave some instructions, like the format or length of the presentation and the report as well as some guidelines to help them guide their research. Then, he asked them to gather in their teams so they could all go to the village's public library together. They were also allowed to leave the library to interview people if they wanted.
Sasuke watched with a deep frown set on his face as his adopted brother joined his team. There was a clear uneasy atmosphere between the four of them, which made the little blond self-conscious and uncomfortable. The dark-haired Uchiha walked to his teacher with determined steps, ignoring Ino's call to joined their team.
''Iruka-sensei, I'd like to be in Naruto's team. Could you switch me with someone else? Sakura's a good friend of Ino... maybe you could switch us?'' Sasuke did his best to be as polite as possible, hoping it would help his cause.
''I'm sorry Sasuke. I won't change the teams,'' Iruka said firmly, but kindly. He put a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder. ''I know you want to help Naruto, but I think it's time you let him interact with others. You always scare them away from him.''
''That's because they're mean to him,'' Sasuke argued.
''That was before; Naruto is stronger now and you guys are also older. I'm sure Naruto will be able to show his worth. But I'm willing to compromise; if Naruto tells you he's being treated unfairly in his team, I'll switch you around, okay?''
Sasuke glared down at his feet. He knew form Iruka's tone that there was no point in negotiating any further.
''Fine,'' Sasuke sighed and reluctantly joined his team.
OoOoO
They had not uttered a single word yet by the time they had reached the library. Shikamaru looked between the odd members of his team and fought the urge to sigh. What a drag this project was going to be. They sat at one of the tables in the entrance hall. Finally, Naruto found the courage to speak.
''Where should we start? Do you want to divide the research into parts?'' Naruto assumed this was what they would want to do, so they would have as little need to interact together as possible.
''I don't care,'' Sakura shrugged, not meeting his eyes. ''As long as we get this over with.'' She didn't even want to strive for a perfect grade like usual; she just wanted to be done with it.
''Yeah,'' Kiba said nonchalantly, looking down at the kangooroo pocket of his hoddie. The large pocket moved around until a small, baby Akamaru came out of it, yawning lazily. ''Hey buddy,'' Kiba greeted quietly with a smile. He petted the dog's soft fur, which caused the dog to yelp happily. ''Sshhh,'' Kiba said, holding his finger up. ''We're in a library; I don't want you to have to wait outside.'' The dog simply yawned again.
''He-he's really cute. What's his name?'' Naruto said, eyes sparkling up at the sight of the small animal.
''Akamaru,'' Kiba replied uneasily, still not meeting the blond's eyes. Akamaru perked up at the compliment and went out of his master's pocket and walked across the table to take a good look at Naruto. The dog yelped again –more quietly this time- and went over to the blond to lick a scarred cheek. Naruto giggled slightly. Kiba stared at the scene with wide eyes. The other two members of the team seemed just as intrigued.
''Is it okay if I pet him?'' Kiba blinked at Naruto's question, then looked down at his dog. Akamaru never let anyone other than Kiba touch him. He was very exclusive and usually growled at anyone remotely suspicious or that simply wasn't deemed worthy of his trust. That fact that his little partner licked Naruto spoke volumes of how non-threatening and trustworthy he valued the blond.
''Yeah, sure,'' Kiba replied, more assertively this time. He looked at Naruto directly for the first time and the Inuzuka felt his heart flutter slightly at the beautiful, happy smile Naruto gave him as thanks. The blond gave the dog a few gentle strokes before Akamaru decided to go back to his master. The dog yelped another time.
''Akamaru says he likes you,'' Kiba said enthusiastically. ''It's a real compliment, 'cause he doesn't like many people outside of my family.''
''Wow, thanks Akamaru,'' Naruto said as he grinned down at the dog.
Shikamaru and Sakura looked at each other. Some of the tension had suddenly been lifted up.
''Like Naruto suggested, we could divide the research. I'd personally like to start with his bio. One of you guys could research his signature jutsus, another could concentrate on when he established the village and the last one maybe on his relations with other villages.''
''Sounds good to me,'' Shikamaru said, nodded approvingly. ''I'd like the last category. What about you guys?'' He turned to Naruto and Kiba.
''Jutsus-'' both Kiba and Naruto answered at the same time. They blinked, then Naruto spoke first.
''It's okay, I'll research the founding of the village.''
''No no,'' Kiba shook his head vigorously. ''I'll take that. I don't mind. You can take the techniques.'' Naruto's eyes widened.
''Are you sure?'' Naruto asked uncertainly.
''Yeah, no prob,'' the other replied with a grin.
''Thanks!'' Kiba blushed; there was Naruto's smile again.
Not too far away, Sasuke was working out the details with his own team. He threw frequent glances at his brother, making sure he was alright. It reassured him when he saw that all seemed well and that Naruto even seemed to be enjoying himself, though he wasn't sure he liked how flustered that Kiba kid was acting around him. He narrowed his eyes suspiciously.
As time progressed, Iruka walked around the tables and nodded approvingly. Everyone was working well and, just as he had hoped, Naruto's team had accepted him.
Sakura had her nose buried into a book for a little while now, deeply interested in her readings. She turned the page to see that this chapter was talking about Hashirama's family. She saw a picture of the First Hokage with what she assumed was his wife; a beautiful woman with long red hair. She read the annotation under the picture: Hashirama Senju and his wife Mito Uzumaki.
She blinked. She read the note again, then stared between the page and Naruto, who was also reading quietly and taking notes in front of her.
''Hey, Naruto...'' The blond looked up from his book and blinked at her. She hesitated for a moment before continuing. ''Your real clan name is Uzumaki, right?'' Naruto didn't particularly like her choice of words, but did not show it. Uchiha felt more 'real' to him now, since he associated it with his happiness. However, he couldn't blame her for not knowing that. He nodded.
''Yeah, why?'' Sakura looked back down at the book, now deeply interested in the unlikely connection. The First Hokage's wife was the only other Uzumaki she had heard of in Konoha. Could they be related? It wouldn't surprise her; Naruto and Mito seemed to share some subtle facial traits, and having the same clan name in the same village could hardly mean anything else.
''Look,'' she said, turning her book around so her teammate could see it. ''The Shodaime's wife was called Mito Uzumaki.'' Naruto's blue eyes grew the size of saucers and he grabbed the book to take a closer look. His heart pounded rapidly against his ribcage. This was the closest to his origins he had ever gotten in all his life.
''Wow... That's... weird,'' Naruto finally admitted, not really knowing what else to say. Then, he was reminded of the reality of his early childhood. Even if they were related, it didn't really matter. No one had showed up to take care of him, so even if he had some sort of distant relative somewhere in or around Konoha, it wouldn't change anything.
''She dead now, and there's no other Uzumaki in the village. So it doesn't really matter, you know? Thanks for showing it to me, though,'' Naruto said with an unreadable expression before going back to his book.
Sakura pressed her lips together and knotted her eyebrows as the wheels in her brain spun rapidly. If Naruto truly was related to the Shodaime's wife –which wouldn't surprise her, such a coincidence wouldn't make sense otherwise- then it made even less sense for people in the village to mistreat Naruto. She recalled the conversation she had had with Ino a few years back. They had agreed to ignore Naruto and that's what they had done. But now that she was interacting with him, she simply couldn't shake the guilt off her mind. Why had they been so mean to him? He certainly didn't act like the 'cursed kid' some villagers labeled him. Looking at his clear blue eyes, Sakura saw nothing more than kindness and honesty.
She looked back down at the picture green eyes burning with determination. Perhaps Naruto didn't want to find out about his origins, but she felt it was her duty to dig out the mystery now. If she found answers, she felt like she could redeem herself for her inexcusable behaviour. Now, she wanted to finish this project even faster than before and do her own personal investigation.
At the end of the school day, Iruka instructed his students to gather their things so they could head back to the Academy. He reassured his students that they would be given more time to work on their project and the group gathered among their friends. Sasuke made a bee-line for Naruto and grabbed the blond's hand to pull him away. Naruto barely had time to wave his teammates goodbye.
Ino soon joined Sakura and the two girls walked together at the back of the line as the group returned to the Academy.
''So,'' Ino whispered to the pink-haired girl. ''How is it, being stuck with him in your team?''
''It's fine,'' Sakura replied, trying to suppress her irritation. ''He's nice,'' she emphasized.
''Eh,'' Ino replied, mildly surprised. She had thought he'd act cold because of how they had treated him before and she said as much to her friend.
''He didn't. He was really nice to everyone.'' She wanted to change the subject. The guilt still made her feel uneasy. ''What about you? How's working with Sasuke-kun?'' She couldn't help but feel jealous, but she knew Sasuke well enough to know he probably acted as uninterested in Ino as he always did. Ino sighed dramatically, which confirmed Sakura's suspicions.
''He was grumpy and didn't talk much. He basically just did what Hinata suggested we all do,'' Ino explained with slumped shoulders. Then she shook her head and clenched her fist in determination. ''But it's okay, he'll warm up! This is my chance; I'll probably never get another opportunity like this!'' She turned and smirked at Sakura triumphantly. The pinked haired girl glared at her and stuck out her tongue. Then, she looked at Naruto and Sasuke, who were walking a few meters in front of them. Sasuke was still holding Naruto's hand and he was smiling fondly at the blond while Naruto chatted away.
''You know, the only person he likes is Naruto. I don't think that will change anytime soon, especially after what we did.'' Ino's spirits faltered. She couldn't deny Sakura's words.
''I think I have a better opportunity than you do,'' Sakura smirked. ''I want to make friends with Naruto. If Naruto can accept me, then maybe Sasuke-kun won't be as cold to me anymore.'' Ino huffed.
''Sasuke-kun's not an idiot, miss forehead. He's going to be able to tell if you're using Naurto to get to him,'' she stated and crossed her arms.
''I'm not!'' Sakura cried back much louder than she had intended. A few of her classmates in front over her turned around to give her a surprised look, then turned back to whatever they had been chatting about. Sakura blushed in embarrassment then turned back to her friend.
''I don't want to be friends for that,'' Sakura explained much more quietly this time. ''I just feel terrible... I just want to make sure Naruto doesn't hate me.'' If she could get closer to Sasuke because of that, well, that was just an added bonus.
''Hm...'' Ino pouted. She could tell Sakura wasn't lying. ''Whatever,'' she huffed again. She certainly didn't plan on being friends with Naruto. Her dad had told her to stay away from the blond, and she had never disobeyed her papa before. It wasn't about to change.
OoOoO
''Ready to go home?'' Sasuke asked his brother as they put on their backpacks.
''Yeah,'' Naruto nodded. ''Maybe we could stop by that bakery we saw the other day. Remember mother said she wanted to try those lemon cakes.'' Sasuke stared.
''You're going to use the allowance mom gives you to buy things for her?''
''Yeah! What's wrong with that?'' Sasuke rolled his eyes and chuckled.
''You're weird.''
''You're weird,'' Naruto retorted and stuck out his tongue childishly.
''H-hey, Naruto.'' Both Uchiha brothers turned around to face a flustered Kiba. Sasuke glared.
''Hey Kiba, Akamaru!'' Naruto greeted cheerfully, crouching down to pet the little dog.
''Akamaru and I are going to the park for a little while before going home. Do you want to come with us?'' Naruto's clear blue eyes went wide and sparkled with excitement.
''I'd love to!'' He replied instantly, then turned towards his brother. When he saw Sasuke's less-than-pleased look, Naruto's excitement faltered slightly. Kiba glared back at the dark-haired boy, then looked away stubbornly.
''Sasuke can come too, I guess.''
''Great!'' Naruto's enthusiasm came back full force. ''Please, Sasuke, please please please!'' Sasuke looked at Naruto from the corner of his eyes, then let out a deep sigh. There was no way he could say no to Naruto.
''Fine.''
OoOoO
Later that evening, Naruto told his whole family about what a great day he had and the new friend he had made. Itachi and Mikoto looked very pleased, but Fugaku was another story.
''You shouldn't trust so easily, Naruto,'' Fugaku instructed firmly. ''The Inuzuka clan is unpredictable and the least refined people I've ever met. I don't think that boy will be a good influence on you... you shouldn't associate with him,'' the clan head said, unshaken by Naruto's sudden broken look.
''B-but, he's really nice and he even invited me and Sasuke to play. We had a lot of fun! He's my first friend and-''
''Enough,'' Fugaku exclaimed, slamming his fist on the table. Everyone but Itachi flinched, completely taken aback by the patriarch's sudden outburst. It was unlike him. ''Why would he befriend you now? Naruto, don't you remember how the children treated you before we adopted you? This so-called new friendship seems like anything but one to me. I don't want you talking to him. It's for your own good.'' Naruto felt his eyes filled themselves water, but willed himself to stay calm in front of his beloved family.
''H-he seems honest... he-''
''Are you defying my orders?'' Fugaku warned through his teeth, narrowing his eyes as he frowned at his adopted son. Naruto instantly looked down at his lap, fighting back the tears with small hiccups.
''Honey, why are you reacting like this?'' Mikoto said calmly, though her expression clearly showed her disapproval. ''There is nothing wrong with Naruto making a friend. I think it's wonderful.'' She added, looking at her blond son, hopping it would make him feel better.
''I disagree Mikoto. My mind is made up. You cannot fully trust anyone outside of your family, Naruto, have I made myself clear?'' Naruto nodded slowly, letting a few tears fall down his cheeks. Sasuke gritted his teeth angrily. He grabbed Naurto's hand and urged him to get up.
''Let's go, Naruto. I've lost my appetite,'' Sasuke said and glared at his dad. Naruto nodded meekly and followed him out of the dining room, still looking down sadly at his feet. Fugaku was not pleased at all with Sasuke's sudden defiance. He had never dared do so before.
''I've lost mine too,'' Mikoto said as she watched her youngest children leave. ''What is that about, Fugaku?'' Her husband frowned.
''You know very well what this is about.''
''They're just children!''
''And when the time comes to carry out our plan, what do you think will happen if Naruto doesn't want to hurt his 'friends'? Do you honestly think that kid Naruto talked about actually cares about him? For all we know, it could be the Inuzuka plotting against us.''
''Do you even hear yourself talking? This is utterly ridiculous!''
Itachi observed the exchange between his parents carefully, calculatingly. Fugaku's outburst, while not wholly surprising, had come out of nowhere. The undercover spy suspected something had happened to make his Father on the edge. He wondered what it was. As for his mother, Itachi was happy that she disagreed with her husband. She didn't mingle much with people outside of the clan precisely because of how unfairly they treated her family, including Naruto of course. But she certainly seemed to believe in the purity of children's intentions.
''You will see who's right in time, Mikoto,'' Fugaku replied evenly and rose from his seat. He walked out of the dining room, slamming the sliding door shut behind him. Mikoto let out a long, heavy sigh.
''I agree with you, mother,'' Itachi said and held her hand comfortingly. ''But you know there is simply no use in arguing with father.'' Mikoto frowned at her lap, then looked into her son's eyes.
''I'm not sure, Itachi. Your father doesn't just run our little family; his decisions are the whole clan's decisions. If your father's judgement is misguided, then it's our duty to make him change his mind. He could make things worse with that kind of mindset!''
Mikoto clasped her hands over her mouth too late to stop the words that came out of her mouth. Even Itachi had lost his cool and stared, wide eyed, at his mother. In their clan, saying such things was considered as nothing less than betrayal. The whole Uchiha clan was so paranoid now, it didn't take much for anyone to be seen as suspicious.
''P-please don't tell your father I said this,'' Mikoto panicked and tightened her grasp on her son's hand to beg for his understanding.
''Of course not,'' Itachi said calmly. He made sure he looked as unwavering as he always did, but his mind was racing a thousand miles an hour. Mikoto was becoming less and less supportive of her husband... perhaps he could let her in on his secret, undercover mission? Itachi chastised himself mentally. He mustn't act rashly. He had to report to the Hokage first.
''Don't worry, mother,'' Itachi spoke again. ''I told you you could confide in me. I wish for nothing more than my family's peace and happiness,'' he spoke truthfully.
''Thank you, Itachi, my wonderful son,'' Mikoto sighed in relief. ''All three of my sons are wonderful. I am truly blessed,'' she smiled.
OoOoO
''Don't worry about what dad said. He can't force you,'' Sasuke said softly, stroking his brother's back gently.
The blond had wiped off his tears, but the look in his eyes simply broke Sasuke's heart. He didn't really like Kiba himself, but he knew how much Naruto wanted to be friends with people at the Academy, and he cared about Naruto's happiness more than anything else. For his brother, he'd swallow his pride and his selfish desires to keep the blond to himself if it meant seeing Naruto happy. That also included going against his father's word.
''I don't want to disobey or disappoint him,'' Naruto confessed. ''I'll apologize to Kiba and tell him tomorrow.'' Sasuke frowned. He remembered being similar to Naruto in that aspect; not disappointing his father had been the only thing that he cared about back then. That certainly hadn't made Sasuke happy. He wouldn't let Naruto do the same.
''Listen,- '' Sasuke had meant to explain that much to his little brother, but he was interrupted by their father's booming voice.
''Naruto, come. We'll train outside.'' Sasuke's eyebrows went high on his forehead, and so did Naruto's. Their father never trained them after dinner time on school days; he always left those periods free for them to do what they liked, let it be studying, training together or just enjoy themselves.
''Okay,'' Naruto, who was the first to recover from his surprise, said meekly before following Fugaku outside. Sasuke was not far behind.
Once outside, Fugaku crossed his arms over his chest and frowned, deep in thought. He kept replaying what Inabi had told him earlier that day. 'You're too soft'... 'Don't get too attached'... Did many other members of the clan think this way? The mere idea angered Fugaku. It was unacceptable.
''I've decided to increase your chakra-control training.'' Naruto was once again very surprised by the declaration. He knew his father was referring to the Kyuubi's chakra. He felt his stomach twist uncomfortably. ''Let's start by emptying your reserve, as usual,'' Fugaku said and positioned himself in a fighting stance. Naruto nodded hesitantly and braced himself for the spare.
Naruto struggled through the spar; his father was unusually rough on him, compared to their previous sessions. He kept up as best he could and used many chakra-expensive techniques to empty his reserve. The spar ended with a powerful kick in the guts that sent him flying across their private training ground. Naruto panted heavily, face flat on the dirty earth and limbs trembling weakly. His reserve was so nearly empty, he couldn't even get up.
''Naruto!'' Sasuke cried out and ran towards his brother to help him. His father stopped him with a solid grip on his shoulder.
''Get back, Sasuke,'' Fugaku ordered, pushing him back slightly.
''What's with you tonight, dad?! Don't take it out on Naruto! He hasn't done anything!'' Sasuke's absolutely livid look caught Fugaku off guard. Was he really so out of his usual self? Had Inabi's words affected him that much? He couldn't let simple subordinates make him question himself. He needed to calm down. He took a deep breath, but still kept Sasuke from going to the blond.
''I said stay back,'' Fugaku repeated, calmer this time. Sasuke cursed under his breath, but obeyed. He knew his father would just keep pushing him away anyway. But if things went too far...
''I-I'm r-ready,'' Naruto said weakly, struggling as he got off the ground. He stood on trembling legs and kept a hand firmly closed on his right arm where one of Fugaku's fire jutsu had burnt him. It happened regularly; there was no escaping burns when training with Uchihas, but his father was usually more careful than this. He was determined not to let his father down. Maybe if he showed some improvement with the demon's chakra, it would make him happy and he would allow him to make friends.
''You know what to do,'' Fugaku said. ''This time, don't focus on the amount you can get out of the beast. Focus on control. Summon less, but use it effectively.''
''I'll do my best,'' Naruto answered quietly, still hurt and confused by everything that was going on.
He closed his eyes and brought his hands together in the seal of the ram, like he had been taught. He ignored all distractions from the outside world and focused on his core, where his –and the demon's- chakra was stored.
He let go of everything until the only thing he could hear was the now familiar sound of water dripping in a cold and empty place. He could hear the soft growled of the Kyuubi as he breathed.
''Here you are again, trying to steal my powers,'' the beast chuckled darkly, amused by the small human's pathetic attempts. Naruto sweat nervously and stubbornly ignored the beast's menacing voice. He continued to concentrate, gritting his teeth together in pain.
''Hm... Something's different,'' the beast growled, narrowing his eyes on the small blond with interest. ''Those negative emotions... I haven't seen them in a while.'' Kyuubi observed, a dark grin stretching his lips, showing his razor-sharp canines.
Naruto continued to ignore him as best he could, but the demon's words were making his stomach heavy with dread. He put his hands over his ears and squeezed his eyes shut tighter, trying to keep the tears from falling down his cheeks.
''Yesss, I like it. Here, let me help you,'' the Kyuubi added with slow, ominous laughter. He let his blood-red chakra flow from him to the boy through the opening that Naruto had created and was trying to control. The Bijuu could see that the little boy was trying to let only a very small fraction of his power to come in, but the little blond wasn't strong enough and didn't know how to do it properly. And now, with his sadness troubling his concentration, it was easier than ever for the beast to take control. ''Ha ha ha ha ha.''
''Naruto, that's too much,'' Fugaku warned, sweating nervously as overwhelming chakra started spinning around the blond. The streaks of red cloud-like energy grew bigger with each passing second. The scars on Naruto's cheeks had gotten thicker and his nails had grown into claws. Fugaku's eyes widened. He took out his blocking seal and braced himself, ready to use it. ''Slow it down!''
''Naruto...'' Sasuke breathed out worriedly. He had seen Naruto lose control before, but the evil chakra emanating out of him was far more suffocating than he had ever witnessed. The power was so strong that he couldn't move; he was frozen into place. He could feel the Kyuubi's killing intent on them like the feeling of a heavy rain pouring down the sky.
''F-father,'' Naruto sobbed and opened his eyes. They remained blue only a second more before the Kyuubi was able to invade his mind and turned the soft colour into a blood-red one, more dreadful even than the Sharingan itself.
Fugaku had seen enough. He charged towards his adopted son and aimed for the boy's forehead with his paper seal. However, he had underestimated how strong the beast's hold was on the blond child and his attack was swiftly avoided.
''What?!'' Fugaku panicked and activated his Sharingan, hoping to better anticipated the demon's movements and retaliate faster. He blocked the possessed child's strike just in time and struggled his unnatural strength. ''Gh,'' Fugaku clenched his teeth tightly together, cold sweat dripping down his forehead. The child's red, fierce glare diminished slightly when their eyes met.
''H-help me... father.'' Fugaku's eyes went wide; Naruto's voice was mixed with the demon's, yet it was spoken with such heartbreaking desperation. Fugaku strengthened his will and seized the opportunity that his son had given him. He let go of the boy's arm and instantly slammed the seal on the small child's forehead.
The red chakra completely dissipated and Naruto regained his cherub-like features. The boy fainted from exhaustion, but his father caught him before he touched the ground. He held the boy securely in his arms and looked down upon his son's soft features. He frowned at the bruises their spar had left and the pained, emotional strain that his face was showing, despite being asleep.
He had been right; he shouldn't have let Inabi's words influence him. He was not going to turn into a second Kazekage. Naruto was not going to turn into a mindless monster, jeopardizing his whole plan in the process.
Sasuke fell to his knees now that the demon's heavy atmosphere had been lifted. He let out a huge sigh of relief. He watched, exhausted, as his father carried his unconscious brother inside. Sasuke summoned the strength to get up and silently followed him, glaring fiercely into his father's back.
Once inside, Mikoto and Itachi watched them pass the corridor worriedly, but they did not speak. Itachi narrowed his eyes. Tonight had been quite eventful and he was not sure what to make of it. His father's expression was more focused now; like he had understood something. The secret spy hoped it was a lesson that would turn to his advantage.
Fugaku set Naruto gently on the bed and asked his other young son to bring him a clean, moist cloth. Sasuke blinked, but hurried to fetch it the moment after. He handed it to his father and the man gently cleaned the dirt, sweat and tears from the blond boy's face. Just as he had finished, Naruto's eyes fluttered open. Fugaku closed his eyes in shame.
''You were not in a state to train, yet I forced you. I'm... sorry.'' The two smaller boy's eyes went wide, completely dumbfounded by the man's confession. Fugaku never apologized. After his initial shock, Naruto's features softened and he shook his head weakly.
''I'm sorry I couldn't do it, father,'' Naruto admitted softly.
''No, don't be. You did well,'' Fugaku replied, and he was telling the truth. In fact, Naruto had done exceptionally well compared to other session, especially considering how much of the demon had flown out of the boy's control. That passing moment of weakness; when Naruto had begged for his help, that had been a great step forward. But Fugaku knew it wasn't Naruto's sadness or anger that had triggered it; what had pushed Naruto to take over the beast for that brief moment was the trust and love that he bore for him as his father. The strength of his feelings had given Naruto the power to restrain the beast's grip on his consciousness. If he hadn't had those feelings for him, Fugaku feared he might have been defeated by the beast, and then who knows what would have happened...
Fugaku was certain now. He gave Naruto's cheek and gentle stroke. Love was the key. He must never repeat the mistake he had made tonight.
''I've changed my mind. You can be friends with whomever you wish. Just promise me to be careful.'' Naruto's face illuminated with a bright, happy smile. He nodded vigorously.
''I will! Thank you so much!'' Fugaku returned the nod, then got up from the child's bed. He turned to Sasuke, put his hand on his son's shoulder and squeezed slightly. They exchanged a serious look, then Fugaku left Naruto's room. Sasuke rushed to his brother's side and took his hand.
''Are you okay?'' The blond gave him a nod and tightened his fingers around Sasuke's slightly in reassurance.
OoOoO
The next morning, everything had returned to how it used to be. Naruto's bruises, as usual, had completely disappeared overnight. There was one change from the usual morning routine, however; before Naruto and Sasuke had exited the dining room after breakfast to prepare, the blond had hesitated for a moment, then rushed back to give Fugaku a tight hug. Everyone –Itachi and Fugaku included- were stunned by the sudden gesture. Fugaku was the first to recover and awkwardly returned the boy's embrace. Naruto broke it a moment later than said goodbye cheerfully to his family before he and Sasuke left for school.
Fugaku smiled as he watched his younger sons leave. Mikoto too, unsuspecting, was smiling happily. Itachi observed his father and narrowed his eyes suspiciously.
There was just something in that smile that made Itachi feel uneasy...
