Chapter 3

Six Days Earlier…

Itachi was searching everywhere in the Sound base for his little brother. When he got word three and a half years ago almost now; that his brother had been sold to Orochimaru by Konoha he instantly felt rage. Over the years Itachi had worked himself to the bone to make the connection he shared with Sasuke stronger. He knew that one day he would be back with Sasuke and he wanted to make sure he knew if Sasuke was alright or not. Itachi didn't want to lose Sasuke while he was out on this mission. So Itachi worked every single day to make the connection with his brother stronger. He knew that the stronger the connection on his end the stronger Sasuke's connection would be on his end. Itachi was perfectly fine with Sasuke being able to sense him if he was near. Itachi would have told Sasuke to truth if he ever got to be alone with him. He didn't want to tell Sasuke when he was seven, because he needed Sasuke to trust Konoha and be kept safe. Lying to him was the only way he could do that. Itachi had very quickly realised that the Sound had a chakra blocker in place making it so that Itachi couldn't sense Sasuke. The only time he could was when they were moving from base to base. Itachi had always left whenever he sensed Sasuke's chakra, but he was always too late. He could never find the Sound's base and with Sasuke trapped inside he couldn't sense his chakra. Itachi also noticed that over the years Sasuke's chakra was getting weaker and weaker. Itachi knew that Sasuke wouldn't have much longer to live so for the last six months Itachi had made clones to travel all over the world in different sections. This time when they moved Sasuke he was going to be able to follow and know the location. When Sasuke's chakra came back up Itachi had a clone nearby and as the clone followed them Itachi rushed to the location. Itachi got there after they had entered, but thanks to the clone Itachi knew where the location and entrance was. The first thing Itachi did once he entered the Sound was find Orochimaru and kill him. Sasuke wasn't with Orochimaru though, but Itachi could very weakly sense his charka.

Now with Orochimaru dead, Itachi was searching through the Sound covered in Orochimaru's blood and any other ninja's that dared to attack him. Itachi followed Sasuke's weak chakra signature to a bedroom that Itachi figured was Orochimaru's. He could sense Sasuke's chakra in the room, but he couldn't see him anywhere. Itachi knew that Sasuke was in this room though; everything in his body was screaming at him that his little brother was here. Itachi called out Sasuke's name, but got no answer. He searched under the bed, in the closet and in the bathroom, but he still didn't see his brother. Itachi stood in the middle of the room just thinking for a few moments. Orochimaru would have hidden Sasuke somewhere so no one would find him. Itachi stood there and looked at the walls. They appeared to be fine and normal, but they were also underground. It would be easy to hide a tunnel or a room behind one of the walls. Itachi went over to the walls and started to run his hand along each and every one. He was hoping to find something that didn't feel right, something that would lead to a hidden room or tunnel. Itachi's hand went over a bump in the wall; it was small so he ran his hand over it again. He bent down, because the bump was only two feet from the ground. He also noticed more of the same bumps and then he noticed that they were in the shape of small circles. Itachi touched one and it moved slightly so he moved it back to reveal that they were holes in the wall, but could be covered up. Itachi felt for a crack or a seam that he could use to move that part of the wall. It was covered in dirt and very well hidden, but with Itachi's eyes he could see that there was a seam that was about two feet high and only three feet long. Itachi knew it couldn't be a room so he thought it was a tunnel. Itachi was able to slide the hidden door down to the right and nothing could have prepared him for what was inside.

It wasn't a tunnel, it wasn't a room. It was a very small and cramped hole cut out in the wall. There inside that cramped and dirty hole was his little brother. He was dressed in tight leather pants that barely covered his ass, a black shier shirt, a black collar around his neck with a chain leash attached to it and a black mask over his mouth with a lock on it. Itachi couldn't stop the rage that filled his entire body. Not only was his little brother dressed like a sex slave he was covered in blood, dirt and bruises. Sasuke wasn't awake and Itachi knew he wasn't asleep, but unconscious. Itachi very carefully and slowly grabbed Sasuke's battered body and pulled him out of the hole. Itachi gently laid Sasuke down on the ground and then tried to wake him up.

"Sasuke, little brother. Come on wake up for me." Itachi said gently, but loud enough that he was hoping Sasuke would hear him.

Itachi tried that eight times before Sasuke finally blinked his eyes awake. Itachi could tell that Sasuke was seriously injured and in a great deal of pain. Itachi could also see the confusion in Sasuke's eyes once he saw that it was him.

"It's okay I'm not going to hurt you. Just relax I'm going to take this mask off of you. I won't hurt you I promise. I'm going to just break the lock just hold on and stay still." Itachi said gently.

Itachi could see the fear in Sasuke's eyes and he didn't want Sasuke to think that he was there to hurt him. Itachi didn't want to hurt Sasuke, he wanted to free him. Itachi also knew the blood on his body was not helping Sasuke to feel any safer. Itachi grabbed the lock and placed his other hand on the mask so he wouldn't hurt Sasuke by pulling the lock off. The lock was simple and easy and it didn't take much strength to break it. Itachi threw the lock away and unbuckled the mask covering Sasuke's face. Itachi could see that Sasuke was still having a hard time breathing so he turned to the collar next.

"Hang on I'm going to take this collar off. It should make your breathing better."

Itachi went to remove the collar and he could feel Sasuke tense up. Itachi had a feeling based on how tight the collar was and how Sasuke reacted, was that Orochimaru had tightened the collar over the years.

"It's okay little brother."

Itachi gently unbuckled the collar and removed it from Sasuke's neck. Itachi couldn't believe the bruising and scar tissue all around Sasuke's neck from the collar. Once the collar was off Sasuke immediately started coughing and his breathing was wheezy.

"It's okay just try and take small deep breaths."

Sasuke tried to take smaller breaths, but the coughing was getting worse. Itachi sensed someone and he turned around to see three people turning into the room. It was two men and one woman. Itachi instantly went on guard thinking that they were here to hurt Sasuke.

"What are you doing to Sasuke." Suigetsu said with anger.

"Who are you?" Itachi asked with a growl.

"We're his friends." Karin said as they moved closer to Sasuke.

"Sasuke?" Itachi asked looking at his brother who was just getting his breathing under control.

Sasuke gave a weak nod and Itachi looked back to them.

"We heard Orochimaru was dead. We came in here to get Sasuke out before Kabuto came for him." Juugo said.

"What are your names?" Itachi asked.

"I'm Juugo, this is Karin and Suigetsu. We've been trying to keep an eye on Sasuke, but it hasn't been easy with Orochimaru and Kabuto around."

"I'm getting him out of here and the three of you are coming with me." Itachi said.

"We're not leaving him so that works out well." Suigetsu said.

"Come on Sasuke we're leaving and making you safe." Itachi said as he helped Sasuke get up.

Sasuke barely had any energy and he was having a hard time standing and walking. Itachi held onto Sasuke and helped him walk out of the base. Itachi was glad that they were in the area of his safe house. It would take an hour to get there, but it was better than nothing. The whole time Itachi held onto Sasuke and helped him walk. It took them almost two hours, but they finally arrived at the safe house. It was in the middle of nowhere and secluded. It would be perfect to keep Sasuke safe where he could heal. Itachi wanted to stay with him, but he couldn't. He had the mission to finish and if he left the Akatsuki he was putting Sasuke at risk. They all went inside the house and Itachi immediately brought Sasuke over to the couch and laid him down on it. Itachi took off his cloak and placed it down. He didn't want Sasuke to be seeing the blood on it. He still had it on his hands and face; he would take a shower before he left.

"Are any of you medics?" Itachi asked.

"No doctors." Sasuke said weakly.

"He won't let anyone heal him." Juugo said.

Sasuke's breathing was getting worse and Itachi knew that Sasuke was sick with something.

"What do you know?" Itachi asked the three of them.

"Not much. He doesn't sleep much. He won't sleep in a bed. He has pneumonia that's probably why his breathing is bad. We only see him when we are switching bases." Karin said.

"I need some time alone with him." Itachi ordered.

The three of them looked at each other and at Sasuke. Only when Sasuke gave a weak nod did the three of them leave the house, but they were just out front in case something happened.

"I know there is a lot we need to discuss. I think right now you need a bath. Sasuke, you're covered in dirt and blood. I have used this house as a safe house for the last nine years. I should have some clothes from when I was younger still here. I'll run you a bath and find some clothes for you to wear. You can get cleaned up and then we can talk. I promise you we'll talk."

"Alone?"

"Yes we'll talk alone."

"No, the bath I can be alone?" Sasuke asked weakly.

"Yes you will be alone." Itachi answered with sadness in his voice.

"Cold?"

"No it'll be warm. Like when you were little. You used to get so dirty running through the woods practicing your fighting techniques. I used to run you a bath to get you cleaned up before father came home for dinner. Is that okay?" Itachi asked softly.

Sasuke gave a weak nod and Itachi could tell that he was scared. Itachi couldn't blame him. He had clearly been tortured by Orochimaru for the last three and a half years. Sasuke didn't know what Itachi was doing there or if he was going to hurt him. Itachi had no problems with taking this slow.

"I'll be right back."

Itachi got up and headed into the bathroom to start the water. He didn't know if Sasuke had any cuts so he didn't add anything to the water. He made sure the water was warm, but wouldn't be too hot for Sasuke. His skin was used to cold water so even warm water would feel hot to his skin. Itachi made sure there was shampoo, soap and a cloth on the ledge so Sasuke wouldn't have to reach for it. He also made sure there were clean towels there within reach for Sasuke. Itachi then went into his bedroom to search through his old clothes to try and find something that would fit Sasuke. He was able to find black jeans, a t-shirt and a leather jacket with a hood on it. Itachi figured they were about the right size for Sasuke so he brought them into the bathroom and placed them down on the counter top. Once the water in the tub was filled he turned off the taps and headed back out into the living room. Sasuke was still on the couch and looking around the room. Itachi went over to him and bent down in front of Sasuke again.

"The tub is ready. Everything you need is right there and a change of clothes. I have some left here from over the years so they should fit you. Are you hungry?"

"No"

"Okay I'm going to make you some tea for your throat. I know it hurts. I also have pain medication if you want."

"No drugs." Sasuke said slightly panicked.

"Okay, that's okay you don't have to. Come on let's get you in the bathroom and you can get cleaned up. We'll take it as slow as you need." Itachi said gently.

Itachi helped Sasuke get up and into the bathroom. He wanted to offer to help Sasuke get cleaned up, but he knew that Sasuke didn't want that. Itachi knew that Orochimaru would have been raping him for the last three and a half years. Itachi wasn't going to place himself on the same level as Orochimaru in Sasuke's mind. Itachi helped Sasuke sit down on the closed toilet lid.

"I'm going to be right in the kitchen. If you need me just call. The water is warm, but your skin is used to cold water so be careful it might feel hot to you. Just go in slowly. There's shampoo and soap there use what you want." Itachi said gently.

Sasuke just gave a nod and Itachi could tell that he was uncomfortable. Itachi left the bathroom and closed the door behind him. He wanted Sasuke to be comfortable and he didn't want Sasuke thinking that he was going to do something to him. Itachi headed into the kitchen where he would make Sasuke some tea for his throat. Sasuke waited for a few minutes to see if Itachi was serious or not. Once Itachi didn't come back in Sasuke slowly got undressed. His body was covered in scars, bruises, whip markings and cuts. He was so thin that you could see each and every one of his ribs. If Sasuke was lucky he weighed maybe eighty pounds. Sasuke slowly got into the tub and the warm water did feel slightly hot to his cold skin. Sasuke took Itachi's advice and went in slowly. His whole body hurt and he was exhausted, but he was used to that. Once in the water and his body got used to it Sasuke felt better. The warm water on his body helped his sore muscles and Sasuke couldn't help, but close his eyes for a few minutes. He didn't want to be long, because he wanted to know why Itachi was there. He wanted to know what happened. He slowly washed his hair and body and got it clean from the dirt and blood. After a good thirty minutes Sasuke pulled the plug and slowly got out. He dried off and looked at the clothes that Itachi left for him. Sasuke got dressed being careful of his injuries and his sore body. Sasuke made sure he avoided the mirror, not ready to see how horrible he looked. He went out of the bathroom and headed back for the couch. Sasuke slowly sat down on the couch and Itachi could see that Sasuke was in a lot of pain. His body seemed to be sore and Itachi figured it was from that hole that he was in. Itachi came over to the couch with two cups of tea. He placed Sasuke's down on the table for him.

"It's honey lemon. It should help your throat. You're in a lot of pain little brother."

"I'm always in pain." Sasuke said weakly.

"Were you always in that hole?" Itachi asked carefully.

"Or one like it."

Itachi noticed that Sasuke was squinting for the first time since they left. Itachi hadn't really looked, looked at Sasuke and now he was able to see that Sasuke was squinting.

"Why are you squinting? Is something wrong with your eyes?" Itachi asked with concern.

"It's bright, it hurts."

Itachi placed his cup down on the table and got up to close the blinds to block out the sun. Now that the room was darker Sasuke was able to open his eyes more. Itachi could see the hints of yellow in his eyes where it should be white. Itachi knew that was a sign of vitamin D deficiency, it happened from lack of sunlight.

"I know it's hard, but you need to be out in the sun. Your eyes are getting yellow that means you have a vitamin D deficiency."

"It's happened before. Every six months I get chained up outside for a week to correct it."

"I'm not going to be chaining you up anywhere. You are more than free to leave here and you are more than free to stay here."

"Why did you come?" Sasuke asked with a hitch to his breath.

"I heard just over three years ago that Konoha sold you to Orochimaru. I've been trying to find you ever since. I could sense your chakra when you weren't inside a base, but once you were I couldn't sense you. So I had made clones and placed them all over the world. When I sensed you I had a clone in the area go and follow you. When I got there I killed Orochimaru and I found you. I know you must have a hundred different questions and I am more than happy to answer them. I think though, that you should know the truth first about that night. I lied to you about why and I think it's really important that you know why now."

"Ok" Sasuke said softly.

"It's a long and complicated story, but I'll give you the quick version. I was working as a double spy. One for the Clan against Konoha and one for Konoha against the Clan. There were problems and the Clan wanted to attack Konoha to take it over. The Council and the Third felt that for the safety of Konoha the Clan needed to be killed. They ordered me to commit genocide on the Clan. I had refused and the Council said they would find someone else. That I would be the only one kept alive. I agreed to kill them, because then I could keep you alive. It was going to happen no matter what and I wasn't going to let you be killed. I wasn't expecting you to show up at the end. I thought I could get the job done and be gone before you returned. I was wrong and I had to lie to you so you would still trust Konoha. I was then sent on a mission to the Akatsuki to take them down. That is what happened that night. I kept you alive, because I love you not because I hate you."

"Ok" Sasuke simply said after a few minutes.

"Ok?"

"All I've ever wanted was the truth now I have it. Before I wouldn't have believed you, but they sold me to him. So now I believe you. What do we do?"

"I know you are hurt and exhausted, but a war is coming. Not just a small one, this will be the biggest war in history. There are six Akatsuki members left, excluding myself. Their leader is Uchiha Madara, you've heard of him from growing up."

"The first Uchiha leader. I thought he died."

"So does everyone, but he didn't die that day. He is also the one that brought forth the nine tails for the third war. He's very powerful and dangerous. He is collecting the tail demons, all nine of them. He is extracting the demons from the host and sealing them inside this statue. The host dies, the only one that hasn't is Gaara. He was able to survive somehow. Once all of the demons are sealed he is going to summon the ultimate demon and begin his war against this world. He's not going after just Konoha, he is going after everyone. Every village is in danger this time around. He also has fifty thousand followers to help so far in this war. He's collecting more and more each month. If he wins the world will be completely destroyed. I can't leave my mission yet until they are dead. Otherwise I would and stay here with you, but I can't."

"I know; its' okay. What can I do?"

"Sasuke, you are injured. You're in no shape to be fighting in a war."

"I know and I won't fight, but I can still help plan an attack or get ninja."

Itachi sat there just thinking for a few minutes. Sasuke was injured, but he didn't look too bad right now. The problem was Itachi wasn't seeing what was underneath Sasuke's clothes or under his skin. Itachi had no idea just how sick Sasuke truly was. Itachi knew he needed help in this. He needed a plan and Sasuke was always better at strategy then him.

"You are not fighting in this war. You haven't been training have you?"

"No. I know I can't fight, but I can still help. You can't do this on your own."

"Do you trust those three out there?"

"Trust isn't easy for me, especially after what happened. I trust them to keep me safe, to defend me. That's about all I trust them with though, but isn't that enough for now?"

"If you trust them to protect you then that's enough for me. I need you to come up with a plan. Something that would work to keep casualties to a minimum. I need you to see about getting ninja to fight for us. It won't be easy though, are you sure you are up to this?"

"I'll be fine. You got me out, so I'm not getting hurt any more. My body will heal."

"You're sick though."

"I'll get better. I'm not in that room anymore. I'm not cold and damp that should help."

"You have to promise me that if you get worse that you will see a doctor."

"I can promise I'll try."

"For now I'll take it. The four of you can stay here and I'll come by when I can to check in and we can communicate with each other. Remember I can sense you anywhere so if you have to leave that's fine. I'll be able to find you if something is wrong. If something does happen just flare your chakra slightly as best as you can and I'll know to come."

"Can I sense you?"

"Not as strongly as I can, but if I am in the area you are in then yes you will be able to. If we end up in the same area I'll come and see you and check in on you. I'll try to check in on you as often as I can. I wish I could stay, but I can't. I have to get back I don't want Madara finding out that we are talking. I don't want Madara to try and take you and force you to join us. I'm sorry I can't stay." Itachi said sincerely.

"It's okay, I understand. I know if a war wasn't coming you would stay. I'll come up with a plan and see what I can do about ninja."

"I want your health to come first. If it is too much for you to handle then that's okay. I don't want you to get sicker. You need to heal first."

"Not being there will heal me. Thank-you for not giving up."

"I would never give up on you. I wasn't going to stop till I had you."

"What about the blood? Shouldn't you shower?"

"I'll wash it off in a stream with my cloak. You need sleep and food. I'll speak to those three out there and let them know what is going on. If something happens you know what to do."

"I'll be safe. They always have protected me when they could. They were the only ones in the Sound who did."

"Then I'll be nice. Are you sure you are okay and up for this?"

"I'll be fine. I just need sleep and I'll be a lot better."

"Feel free to use anything in this house. In the closet in the bedroom there are old clothes in there, some might fit you. You are more than welcome to them. There is some non-perishables in the kitchen and the stream outside has fish in it."

"Ok"

"Ok, I'll speak with them and then I'll be off. I love you."

"I love you."

Itachi gently pulled Sasuke into a hug and he felt Sasuke tense up for a few seconds before he relaxed into his hug. Itachi knew that it was going to be a long road, but he was hoping Sasuke would make it. From what he could see Sasuke didn't have that many injures, but he had no idea just how battered Sasuke's body was on the inside. Itachi let Sasuke go and he got up. He grabbed his cloak and headed for the door.

"Drink the tea. It will help with your throat."

"I will."

Itachi gave a nod and then headed outside to see the three ninja standing right there on the porch.

"The light hurts his eyes and they have yellow to them. He needs sunlight, but not at the brightest hours. He said you protected him in the Sound whenever you could."

"Not as much as we would have liked. When he wasn't with Orochimaru or Kabuto we did our best to keep him safe." Juugo said.

"Then do it now. I am the only one who knows about this house. You are a sensor." Itachi stated as he looked at Karin.

"I am."

"Then you will know how I sense. You sense anyone coming towards this house that is not me you get him out of there."

"We aren't at your level, but we'll do our best." Suigetsu said.

"You don't have to be at my level. You just have to keep him safe until I come. I will know if he's in trouble. He trusts you with his life, don't make him regret it."

"We won't." Juugo said.

"A war is coming or I would stay. He's going to need help with getting everything ready. I will stay on my mission and Sasuke is going to come up with a plan and ninja. He might need your help getting the message out and putting the plan in place."

"We'll help him with anything he needs." Karin said.

"This war will be huge and if we fail the whole world will be gone. You are ninja's without headbands, so that means you have never fought for a village. You need to fight for this world. You need to be serious with this. We cannot fail." Itachi said in a serious voice.

"We might not fight for a village, but that don't mean we aren't serious. We stand by Sasuke and will fight for him." Suigetsu said.

"Very well. I have to go. He trusts you with his life, to protect him. I'm now trusting you with that as well. Don't let either one of us down."

"We will keep Sasuke safe." Juugo said as he looked Itachi right in the eyes a rare thing for Itachi now a days.

"I'll be back to check in when I can. In the bedroom there is a trunk with weapons just in case."

"Be safe. Sasuke just got you back; he won't be able to handle losing you now." Karin said.

"I don't plan on it." Itachi said as he headed down the steps and off into the forest.

"Either one of you wish to walk away do so now." Juugo said once Itachi was gone.

"I'm not going anywhere." Karin said.

"I ain't either."

Juugo gave a nod and headed inside to see Sasuke sitting on the couch with a tea cup in his hands. Juugo went and sat down on the other side of the couch while Karin and Suigetsu sat down on the loveseat in the room.

"Itachi tell you everything?" Sasuke asked.

"He did." Juugo said.

"If you want to leave I would understand." Sasuke said weakly.

"We're not going anywhere Sasuke." Suigetsu said with a serious voice.

"I think for the next few days you should just rest. Then we can work on a plan for this war. I'm sure there is food around here we could find." Karin said.

"There are fish in the stream Itachi said." Sasuke answered.

"I'll go fishing then." Suigetsu said with a smile.

"Why don't you try and lie down." Juugo suggested.

"I'm fine." Sasuke said in a hurry.

The others knew that Sasuke hadn't slept in three years and he barely ate. They also knew it wouldn't be a change overnight. It was going to take a long time before they were able to get Sasuke to sleep or to eat.

"Did Itachi explain why he found you?" Karin asked.

"He told me the truth about that night the Clan was killed. He explained everything and I understand why he didn't do it before."

"You have your brother back that must make you happy." Juugo said.

"It does." Sasuke gave a small smile and the others knew that what he said was true.

"Alright well I'll go fishing and then we can eat something." Suigetsu said.

"Later on when the sun isn't so high Sasuke you need to sit outside for a little while." Karin said.

"I know."

They had spent the next four days in the house just trying to get Sasuke to eat and to sleep. They weren't successful and they knew they couldn't hound Sasuke about it. They just wanted to make sure he was alright. Late in the fourth day they decided they would go for a walk outside. Sasuke's eyes were looking better and they were almost back to a normal color. Sasuke had been trying to think of a plan for the last four days, but so far he hadn't been able to. The last four days also made it very clear to the other three ninjas that Sasuke was not okay. He had a lot more injuries then they had expected. Most were underneath his skin, the ones that needed a doctor to be able to heal. The problem was Sasuke wouldn't even consider letting a doctor come close to him, just like he wouldn't sleep and eat. Sasuke needed more help than they could give him. They weren't sure, but they were positive that Sasuke had brain damage and possibly lung and nerve damage. They were keeping him safe, but as for his health they didn't have a clue what to do. They couldn't make him eat, sleep and get healed. They needed someone that Sasuke saw as an authority figure. They needed Itachi to be there to help Sasuke, but that wasn't an option.

They were walking through the forest not too far from the house, because Sasuke's body was still in a great deal of pain. When a squad of Konoha ninja appeared in front of them. The three of them immediately stood in front of Sasuke to block them from him. Sasuke had his hood up, but you would still be able to tell it was him. One ninja stepped out from the others with a letter in his hands.

"Lady Tsunade wants to summon you to an important meeting about this war. It's all in the letter. She is summoning a group of outside ninja from other villages. She has requested you specifically." The leader said.

"Like we're going to trust you." Karin said rudely.

"We don't want the traitor there, but this is Lady Tsunade's orders and we will do as she wishes. It's up to you if you show or not." The leader said with the letter out in his hand towards them.

Juugo went and took the letter from the man and just as fast as they appeared they were gone. Juugo handed the letter to Karin and Karin looked at it to make sure there were no traps on the letter before she handed it to Sasuke. Sasuke took the letter and opened it to read. It was a simple summons to a meeting about the war. They wanted to go over the plan that Konoha had created.

"What's it say?" Suigetsu asked.

"It's a meeting. Konoha wants to release its plan for the war." Sasuke answered.

"Let's head back and discuss it there. Karin, keep a watch for any other ninja." Juugo said.

They all headed back to the house and made sure that they were not being followed. They didn't want to burn the location especially if they were going to be staying there for a while. Once they got back Sasuke sat down on the couch, his body was in a great deal of pain and traveling even short distances was hard on him. They others sat down as well before they started.

"It's your decision if you wish to go and we will go with you, but I think this is a decision that needs to be discussed first." Juugo started.

"There are a lot of factors involved with this." Karin added.

"Ya like whether or not Itachi will kill us for even bringing you close to Konoha." Suigetsu said.

"Well that would be a con." Karin said back.

"What other cons are there?" Sasuke asked.

"They can't be trusted. They sold you Sasuke." Juugo said.

"See that's a huge con, but at the same time what if they didn't know." Suigetsu said.

"I can't trust the Council or the Hokage, but what if they didn't know? Maybe they will be happy to see me and want to know what happened. I just disappeared maybe they have been looking for me." Sasuke said.

"That's a possibility. If we go though, you have to be prepared for the other outcome and that's that they weren't looking for you. That they didn't care. Is that something you could handle?" Juugo asked.

"I'll know when they see me if they cared or if it was all a lie. I don't know if I could handle it being a lie, but I don't know if I can live never knowing if it was or wasn't." Sasuke answered honestly.

"I think on a personal level there are endless unknowns. I think we need to be looking at this as a professional level. A major pro would be finding out what Konoha's plan is. We might be able to work with it in this war. That would give Itachi a plan and ninjas to fight in this war with. It might just be what we need." Karin said.

"It could also be a trap." Suigetsu said.

"I don't think it is. They could have killed us back there; they didn't even try to fight. Tsunade wants to speak to me, which means they have figured out that Madara is in this war." Sasuke said.

"They don't know that Itachi is on their side. They need an Uchiha to fight an Uchiha and you're the only option." Juugo stated.

"They could just throw him in jail until this war though." Karin said.

"They won't, because then they know I won't fight. Tsunade won't defend me, but she won't risk me leaving either. They need me in this war so they'll keep me alive."

"So are we going then?" Suigetsu asked.

Sasuke was quiet for a few minutes while he tried to think this through. He did think it was a good idea to hear their plan and see if he could make it work with Itachi and what he needed. The problem was that Sasuke was afraid to find out how the others were going to react. He didn't know what they had been doing these past three and a half years. He didn't know if they had been looking for him or not. That ninja leader called him a traitor so obviously some people in the village believed he left on his own free will and not that he was sold and taken. The problem was Sasuke wanted to see Kakashi, he wanted to have Kakashi around and he wanted to believe that the connection they shared was real. He was terrified to find out if Kakashi looked for him or not. If Kakashi believed he was a traitor or not. Sasuke knew he would get his answer within seconds of coming face to face with Kakashi. If he didn't hug him or act relieved to see him then it was all a lie. Sasuke didn't care about the others he knew how they would react if they believed he was a traitor. It was Kakashi that Sasuke really wanted around. Kakashi had started to become a father figure to Sasuke before all of this and he just wanted to feel safe again. Kakashi was always able to make him feel safe no matter what. This was a huge risk, but he had to take it. He had to know if he could ever go home.

"We're going. I have to go."

"Then we'll go." Juugo said.

The other three understood why Sasuke needed to go and they were fine with going. They would be there to protect Sasuke and keep him safe. Hopefully it would work out for Sasuke in the end, but they just didn't know.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX

It was nearing three in the morning and Itachi couldn't help but think back to the day when he first found Sasuke. Itachi was hating himself for not seeing all of Sasuke's injuries. He should have known that Sasuke would have injuries underneath his skin. He should have made Sasuke get healed by a doctor before he left. Itachi wished he didn't have to leave, but he knew he didn't have a choice. It made him feel better knowing that Sasuke trusted Kakashi and Kakashi would be there for Sasuke while he couldn't be. Itachi looked over at his brother and saw that he was shivering. Itachi figured it had to do with the pneumonia and that he was getting a fever. Itachi wanted to give Sasuke some space, but he also didn't want him to feel like he didn't care. So Itachi moved over to Sasuke and sat down beside him. Sasuke looked over at Itachi with confusion on his face.

"When did you get here?" Sasuke said with a shaky voice.

"Hours ago. Haven't you sensed me?"

"No. I don't sense anyone."

"That's because your body is so exhausted. Once you get some sleep you'll be able to. Your team is here and so are Kakashi, Sakura and Naruto. Everyone is asleep. The rest of the squad left earlier to continue on to the castle. They thought a smaller group would be better for you. Do you not remember that?"

"No" Sasuke said slightly worried.

"What do you remember?" Itachi asked gently.

"Waking up with Kakashi there. Suigetsu and I got water then we started to travel. That's it. Why don't I remember?" Sasuke asked with fear in his voice.

"Does that happen often?"

"I don't know, I guess. It's hard to tell the days always blended into each other. It was easy to lose time, to lose days. Something is really wrong with me isn't there."

"Sakura healed you. Do you notice your breathing is better at all and the pain?"

"It doesn't hurt to breathe anymore. The pain isn't as bad, but I haven't moved so. She found something; I can see it in your eyes. You're looking at me differently, like I'm broken."

"You are not broken. I don't see you any differently than I ever have. You are still my little brother who I love with all my heart. Sakura did find a few things wrong with you. Things that can't be healed; things that together we can figure out a way to make it more bearable for you to live with."

"What did she find?" Sasuke asked with fear all throughout his voice.

"You do have nerve damage to your spine and in your neck. That's why you have a hard time turning your head to the left. The damage to you spine is why your hips and legs hurt to the point where you can't move. The damage to both your spine and neck is permanent; however, there are exercises that can be done to make it more bearable. You can do things to make sure you have more good days then bad."

"So I can never fight again."

"No you can't, but I don't think that is something you should be upset over."

"I'm not. I was never going to be a ninja again regardless, but I wanted to be able to help you in this war if you needed it."

"You still can from behind the lines. You are working on a plan and getting ninja that's helping me tremendously. I'll handle the fighting. Sakura checked your blood and you have no diseases in case you were worried about that. She was able to heal your lungs; they did have damage and scar tissue in there. It was why you were in so much pain when you breathe. You still have pneumonia and you need an anti-biotic. Sakura will get some from a hospital when she comes across one. You need to take it or the pneumonia could kill you. Do you understand?"

"I don't like drugs, but I'll do it for you. It's been a long time with it and I'm really getting tired of feeling so horrible all the time." Sasuke said honestly.

"I know you are. Hopefully with the pneumonia gone you'll feel better. Your bones are weak and brittle, because of where you were kept. They couldn't grow and strengthen properly. You'll need to eat right and take vitamins to help strengthen them back up. You are still going to be in pain moving around too much, but it will be better than it was. Once you get some proper sleep and food into you on a regular basis you will feel better. You won't be so tired and run down all the time. The pain from the nerve damage can be controlled with physical therapy. Everything that is wrong can either be corrected or dealt with so you can live with it. So it's not bad news."

"There's something else. Something big you're not telling me. I know you're looking at me differently and you haven't told me what it is that is making you look at me like this. It's my brain isn't it?"

"I'm not looking at you any different. I'm mad at myself for not making you see a doctor when I got you out. I'm mad at myself for leaving you in Konoha and not taking you with me. I'm mad at a lot of people for a lot of different reasons. I don't see you any less than I ever have. You need to remember that. Sakura did find permanent brain damage to a part of your brain. It's why you have trouble some days remembering words, or conversations. Why some days you don't remember the whole day."

"But it can be fixed right? There's something I can do to make it better."

"You can do mind exercises to increase the good days, but you'll always have it. I'm so sorry little brother."

"It's not your fault. So now what? Are you going back to the Akatsuki or going to the castle?" Sasuke asked. He couldn't think about the brain damage, he couldn't even say it out loud yet. So he was going to just focus on what needed to be done.

"Come morning I am going to go back to the base. I have a transportation seal that I am going to use to transport you all to the castle or close enough to it. So tomorrow you'll be at the castle instead of five or six days from now. I don't know what shape the castle is in it might need repairs, but I think it is a good place to have this war."

"We need to try and kill off the Akatsuki."

"I agree. When one is alone I will let you know and we can organize an attack. You should try and sleep though little brother. Your body needs it."

"Can't you just hold me until morning?" Sasuke asked softly.

"Absolutely"

Itachi pulled Sasuke closer to him and Sasuke curled up against Itachi's side. Itachi wrapped his arms around Sasuke and just held him close. Itachi could feel Sasuke's fever through his head and Itachi knew that he had to get Sasuke to take the jacket off.

"You need to take your jacket off. Your fever is too high little brother."

"It's cold."

"That's from the fever. You need to get it down or you'll get sicker. I'll keep you warm."

Sasuke moved away from Itachi's side so he could take off his jacket. His body was still extremely sore so Itachi helped to get the jacket off from Sasuke. Once it was removed Sasuke's shivering got worse from the cool wind. Itachi held Sasuke close to him again and Sasuke curled up against Itachi's body looking for his body heat. They stayed that way for another four hours before everyone started to wake up. Kakashi woke up after a restful night's sleep. He hadn't slept for two days and now he was energized and ready to go. Kakashi came out of his tent and saw that everyone else was starting to get up. Kakashi looked over and saw Itachi and Sasuke sitting together with Sasuke curled up against Itachi's side with his jacket off. Kakashi headed over there to see how Sasuke was feeling this morning.

"Morning Kakashi." Itachi said.

"Morning. How are you feeling Sasuke?" Kakashi asked as he bent down in front of the brothers.

"Cold."

"Your fever is back up I see. Besides that how are you feeling?"

"Same as always."

"Did Itachi explain to you what happened yesterday?"

"Ya he told me. I guess we should get ready to go. We have a lot of work ahead of us. There's no telling what shape the castle is in." Sasuke said desperate to change the topic.

"We should get everyone up and moving. Itachi I know you don't have a lot of time. We'll pack up and you can do the seal." Kakashi said.

"Can I put the jacket back on now?"

"Yes, but you need to keep an eye on your fever. It can't get too high." Itachi said.

Sasuke moved away from Itachi and put his jacket on. Both Kakashi and Itachi could see the pain his body was in. They knew that he was going to be in pain until they were able to get his body to heal more. Kakashi was just glad that Sasuke could have more good days then bad in the future. He just had to figure out how to get Sasuke to want to put the work in for it. The three of them headed over to the others and Sasuke went over to his squad to see how they were doing. Itachi and Kakashi stood back for a few minutes.

"He knows about the brain damage, but he hasn't accepted it yet. He won't even say it out loud. I didn't tell him about the village yesterday. I don't see the point in reminding him about it. He doesn't remember anything from yesterday so I explained where the others went." Itachi said.

"I'll keep an eye on him and keep him with me. I'll keep him safe Itachi. I know you're worried about him. I promise I'll look after him like he was my own son. I will help him through this. You just focus on the Akatsuki and I will focus on Sasuke. You need to come back to him alive. He needs you alive."

"I need him alive. I'm counting on you. He's counting on you."

"I know and I won't let either of you down."

"We need to hurry. I want to go to the village before I head back."

"Let's get them ready then."

Kakashi and Itachi headed over to the rest of the group. They all got their packs together and were ready to go in twenty minutes. Itachi was working on the seal while the others were getting ready and he finally had it set up for everyone to fit. Itachi knew it wasn't going to be the exact location, but it would bring them close enough to the castle. Sasuke came over to Itachi before everyone got into the circle.

"Be safe." Sasuke said.

"I will. I promise I will be back. I love you."

"I love you."

"I'll see you when I can. Listen to Kakashi he'll keep you safe."

"I know."

Itachi pulled Sasuke into a hug before Sasuke went over to the rest of the group and got into the circle. Sasuke stood by Kakashi and his squad and watched as Itachi made the hand seals. Within five minutes they were transported to another part of the forest. Once they were transported to a spot in the forest closer to the castle, Sasuke's body felt the full force of the transportation. His legs gave out on him, but Kakashi was quick to catch him before he hit the ground. Kakashi gently lowered Sasuke down to the ground and kneeled beside him. Sasuke's breathing was heavy and laboured. The pneumonia clearly still running havoc through Sasuke's body. Kakashi could also feel the heat of the fever coming through the top of Sasuke's head. Kakashi knew he needed Sasuke to take off the jacket, but he didn't know if he would do it around everyone.

"You're okay. Itachi said that this would take a lot out of you. Just rest for a few moments. We need to find our grounding anyways." Kakashi said.

Sasuke's squad stood by him while the others looked around trying to figure out where they were and where the castle was.

"How the hell are we going to find it through all of these trees?" Naruto asked annoyed.

"Climb one idiot." Suigetsu said back.

"Hey don't call me an idiot."

"Don't be an idiot then."

"Suigetsu" Sasuke said with a shaky breath.

"Well it's true." Suigetsu whispered back to Sasuke.

"Naruto, climb a tree and see if you can find where the castle is." Kakashi said.

Naruto headed over to a tall tree and started to climb with his chakra.

"What's it look like?" Naruto asked once he was half way up.

"Like a castle in the middle of the forest." Suigetsu mumbled.

"Really?" Karin said before Sasuke could say anything.

"What? You can't tell me you don't find him idiotic and annoying." Suigetsu said in his own defense.

"We're trying to work together with these people so stop pointing it out." Karin said back.

"Naruto, it's going to be the only structure in the forest around here." Kakashi yelled back.

Naruto climbed the rest of the way to the top of the tree and then started to look around. He didn't know how tall the castle would be or what shape it would even be in. For all they knew it could be in complete rubble. It took Naruto a good fifteen minutes before he spotted the castle. It wasn't that far away only about fifteen minutes from here. Naruto couldn't tell what kind of shape it was in from all of the trees. He could only see the pole where a flag was supposed to be. Naruto climbed down the tree and spoke once he was close enough to the bottom.

"It's that way about fifteen minutes from here." Naruto said as he pointed in the direction. "You can barely see the flag pole from the trees. It must not be that tall."

"It was a secret castle only a few knew about. To this day most don't know of its location." Kakashi said.

"Oh Sasuke how did you find out about it?" Naruto asked.

"Read about it." Sasuke weakly answered.

"We should get going. We don't know what shape the castle is in or if there are any enemies there." Juugo said.

"There could also be ninja there waiting." Karin said.

"So soon?" Sakura asked.

"There are a few villages that are close by that would have received the messages by now. It's possible people could be there." Juugo answered.

"Help me up." Sasuke whispered to Kakashi who was still beside him holding on.

"You guys go ahead and scout for any enemies. I'll walk with Sasuke." Kakashi said.

"Sasuke?" Suigetsu asked.

"Its' okay go. Make sure there are no traps or enemy there. I won't be far behind you."

"Let's go." Naruto said.

"Juugo, you're in charge." Sasuke said.

"We'll clear all the rooms in the castle to make sure we don't have any surprises." Juugo said.

"Listen to Juugo." Kakashi said to Naruto and Sakura, who just gave a nod in return.

The others took off into the trees so they would get there a lot sooner than Sasuke and Kakashi. Kakashi knew that Sasuke couldn't risk being caught in a fight. Sakura never said it, but she didn't have to; any blows to Sasuke's head could make the brain damage worse.

"Come on let's go sit over there against the tree and give your breathing a minute to calm down." Kakashi said as he gently helped Sasuke get up.

Kakashi and Sasuke slowly went over to a tree and Kakashi helped Sasuke sit down. Sasuke leaned back against the tree and tried to get his breathing back to normal. Kakashi sat down beside Sasuke.

"Sasuke there was something I was wondering about. How were you summoned?"

"A group of ninjas found us in the forest. The leader handed me the summons. Why?"

"I was just wondering. Itachi said he left you in a safe place and I wasn't sure how anyone found you."

"He did leave me in a safe place, but we went out for a walk. I had to be out in the sun for a little while to fix the deficiency."

"Deficiency?" Kakashi asked with concern in his voice.

"Vitamin D deficiency. I was getting yellow in my eyes again I had to be out in sunlight to correct it."

"Again? How many times had that happened?"

"That was the seventh time. Once every six months I would be chained outside to fix it. I would get really sick and sunlight was the only thing that worked to fix it."

"Were you kept in that…" Kakashi didn't even know what to call it. He didn't know where Sasuke was kept. Sasuke had called it a room, but he said it also wasn't a room.

"Hole" Sasuke said.

"Were you kept in that hole all the time?"

"We moved bases every year, but they all had a hole in the wall in his room. It wasn't all day every day. When I wasn't in the hole I was in his room or traveling to another base or visiting a village."

"I'm sorry I wasn't there when you needed me. I'm sorry I didn't come looking for you. I should have listened to my gut and not believed what I saw. I should have been there for you."

"You're here now. That's more than I ever thought I would get."

"And I'm not going anywhere."

"We should get going. There's a lot of work that will need to be done. We don't have much time to get this war planned."

"You're right. Let's head to the castle and see what shape it is in." Kakashi said as he stood up.

Kakashi helped Sasuke get up and together they slowly made their way towards the castle. It took them twenty minutes to get there and when they arrived everyone else was standing out front waiting for them.

"It's all clear. No one was here." Juugo said once Kakashi and Sasuke were close enough.

"The structure is intact, but the inside needs some work." Suigetsu said.

"I had a feeling it would be like that. Let's spilt up. Karin you are a medic correct?" Kakashi asked.

"I have healers blood in me. I can also do some simple first aid." Karin answered.

"You and Sakura go and see if you can find an infirmary. See what there is and what you need. Make a list so we know. You three go around and check the rooms on the east end and see what shape they are in, what they are and how many. Sasuke and I will do the same for the west end." Kakashi said.

"Suigetsu behave." Sasuke simply said.

"Who me?" Suigetsu said with a smirk before he walked away with Juugo and Naruto.

"I saw the infirmary down in the east end. Come on." Karin said as she headed down towards the east end without even seeing if Sakura was following behind her.

"Will they ever get along?" Sasuke asked once they were alone.

"They will, just give it time. Let's go and see how this half of the castle looks. Maybe we can find you a room you can hide in and work on the plan."

Sasuke gave a nod and together they headed down towards the west end to see what the rooms were like. Juugo, Suigetsu and Naruto were walking down the halls of the east end. Juugo had the pad of paper and a pen and he was writing down the number of rooms and what they were. He was also making notes of how the rooms looked and what they needed repaired. They were only on their fifth room when Naruto started.

"What's your problem with me?" Naruto asked.

"I don't have a problem with you." Juugo simply answered. In truth he really didn't. He had a problem with how their presence was affecting Sasuke, but he couldn't blame them for that.

"I just don't like you." Suigetsu said.

"Why the hell not? You don't even know me."

"I do know you. I know you called Sasuke your friend, your teammate. Yet when he needed you, you were nowhere to be found."

"I didn't know it was a clone." Naruto said in his defense.

"That makes it worse. Not only were you not there when he needed help. You didn't even know it was a clone. You have done nothing, but lie to him and make him believe that you cared. Your actions speak louder than your words. And so far your actions have been to abandon him. He needed help and for six months you couldn't tell the difference between him and some clone. That's why I don't like you and if I had it my way you wouldn't be here. Or any Konoha ninja."

"We don't want to hurt Sasuke. We just want to help. So get used to it, cause I'm not going anywhere."

"And if he asked you to leave? Or your presence was making him worse would you?" Juugo asked.

"I don't know. He won't ask that, he'll get used to being around us again and when this is over he'll be back in Konoha. He'll be back home."

"So he's just going to forget the betrayal that Konoha did to him? He's supposed to act like he was never sold by his own village. You really are naïve if you believe that." Suigetsu said.

"You'll see Sasuke will be back to his old self before you even know it."

"You really are an idiot." Suigetsu grumbled.

"Let's just focus on the task at hand. We need to get this place ready for the war. We don't have time for pettiness." Juugo said.

"Fine" Suigetsu mumbled.

They continued on throughout the east end of the castle writing down everything they could about the rooms and their conditions. It would take a while to fix, but hopefully with more ninja they would be able to get this place setup and ready for the war. Karin and Sakura were walking to the infirmary that Karin saw earlier. They didn't know what it would hold, but Sakura knew it wouldn't be much. Along the way Sakura spoke.

"So you have healers blood in you. How does that work?" Sakura asked trying to make a civil conversation.

Sakura knew that Sasuke's squad didn't like them. She couldn't blame them for all they knew Konoha betrayed Sasuke. The problem was they didn't know that Sasuke was sold or they would have done everything they could to save him. Sakura understood that they should have known it was a clone, but they didn't. Sakura just wanted to make everything right and okay between everyone.

"My blood can heal people." Karin said simply with no interest in a conversation.

"You said it doesn't heal everything though, so what can it heal?"

"Major bleeding, internal bleeding, stab wounds, broken bones things like that."

"Not chakra?"

"Nope"

They walked into the infirmary and it was a dirty mess. It would need some cleaning and organization before they could truly use it. Karin and Sakura started to open drawers and cupboards to see if there was anything in them. The only thing they found was dust and more dirt. The castle hadn't been used in close to eighty years so it wasn't a surprised that there was nothing that they could use.

"There's nothing here." Karin said as she headed for the door. Sakura went after her.

"Where are you going?"

"To tell Sasuke that nothing is there."

"What's with the attitude?"

"That's just how I am."

"You're not like that with Sasuke."

"I like Sasuke, I don't like you or your little friends."

"Why? We haven't done anything."

"No you just left him in the Sound after your village sold him."

"We didn't know."

Karin stopped to look at Sakura.

"I told you it doesn't matter that you didn't know. You should have noticed a clone. That's not even the point. Once you learned of it you still didn't do anything. You didn't come and see him once you found out. You didn't apologise for what you did. That guy didn't apologise for what he said to Sasuke about cutting himself. You all still wear the forehead protectors and fight for a village that thinks its okay to sell thirteen year old boys to a sadistic monster. How can he trust you or know that you're on his side if you don't show any loyalty?"

"We're here to fight with him."

"No, you're here for this war. That doesn't show loyalty to him. It just shows that you don't want the world to end. When this is all over with you and your little friends will still go back there and still fight for the village. Still fight for the same person that sold him."

"Tsunade didn't know."

"Whether she knew or not doesn't change what happened. She should have known. She's the leader and she can't even control her own council. She sent a group of Genin after Sasuke. That right there shows how much she didn't care about him or his life. Why would he trust you if you stay loyal to the people that made him this way. He has brain damage and nerve damage. He can never be the same; he can never be pain free for the rest of his life. You think being here makes up for all of that? You really are an idiot." Karin said as she turned and walked away.

Sakura was stunned she hadn't even thought about it like that. She never even thought how Sasuke would feel about them still being loyal to Konoha. Sakura just figured that once this was over with that Sasuke would be back there with them and everything would work out. Now she didn't know. She didn't know if she was showing Sasuke that she wasn't loyal to him. She still cared about Sasuke and she didn't want him to think she wasn't on his side, because she was. Sakura figured she would speak to everyone once they showed up in a few days to see how they all felt about it. Sakura followed after Karin to meet back up with Sasuke and the others once they returned from their tasks.

Kakashi and Sasuke were checking the rooms on the west end. So far they had found bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. All of them were in a variety of shape, some worse than others. They came to another room and it was in the best shape so far. There was a bed, a desk and a closet. There was also its own bathroom. Kakashi went into the bathroom to turn on the tap to see if they had water.

"We have water." Kakashi said as he came back out into the bedroom.

"We have electricity to." Sasuke said as he flipped on the light switch.

"So water and power are the most important and we have those. Everything else can be fixed. This should be your room. It's far enough away from the others and has its own bathroom. I can take the room next door so you know where I'll be." Kakashi suggested.

"Ok"

"Alright, let's head back and see how the others made out. Then we can come up with a plan for everything."

"Is four months too early? This place is a mess; do you think we can be ready in four months?" Sasuke asked as they walked back down the hall.

"I think with the more ninja that show up the quicker the repairs will be. I think it's possible. We can figure it all out, one step at a time."

"I think if we wait too long we risk too many followers."

"I agree. We can do this. We will have the ninja for this. Everything seems like a lot right now, because we just started, but it will get easier. Once things start to get accomplished you'll feel better about it."

"Assuming ninja show up."

Kakashi stopped and Sasuke stopped beside him.

"What's wrong?" Sasuke asked.

"People are here."

"Why can't I sense anyone?" Sasuke asked with concern.

"Your body is exhausted. I wouldn't worry about it. Once you get enough sleep your senses will come back completely. You'll wake up one time and they will be there. Don't stress over it your body just needs rest."

"Who do you think is here?"

"There are some villages nearby its most likely people from there. I just wanted to warn you so you didn't get scared."

"I have to get used to people eventually."

"I know, but you don't have to push yourself. Let's go and see who it is and we can always bring the leader into a room to speak with."

"You're going to be there though right just in case."

"I'm not leaving your side. I'm here to help you. I'm here for you. You can do this and I will be there to help you if you get stuck. Just remember to breathe and relax. They came here to fight for you. Once they hear what you have to say they won't leave. You can do this Sasuke."

Sasuke took in a deep breath before he spoke. "Ok"

"Ok, come on."

Kakashi and Sasuke started to walk back towards the entrance. Kakashi noticed that Sasuke was standing closer to him, but he wasn't going to comment. Kakashi was just happy that Sasuke trusted him. Sasuke could have very easily pushed Kakashi away, but he didn't. He still trusted him and Kakashi couldn't be happier about it. After everything that Sasuke went through for him to still trust Kakashi that showed that he wasn't completely destroyed. Kakashi was hoping to use that trust to help Sasuke get better and to overcome all of this. They got to the entrance and they saw a massive group of ninja and men. Kakashi figured there were at least a thousand people standing there on the other side of the door. Kakashi knew that this many people were going to give Sasuke a serious problem. He wasn't comfortable around sixteen people; this would be suffocating for him. Three men stepped away from the group and over to them. Kakashi figured that the one in the middle was the leader of this group and the other two were just protectors.

"A Konoha ninja. I see this was a trick after all. We won't fight for the likes of you. We came here to fight for Uchiha Sasuke, but it seems like he was bought by a new owner. We're leaving let the great nations fight this war." The leader said.

He turned to leave when Kakashi spoke.

"Sasuke is not owned by anyone and if you ever say that again I will kill you myself."

The leader and his two men turned around to face them. They could see the anger in Kakashi at the accusations.

"I am here to fight for Sasuke as well. I'm not here fighting for Konoha. My loyalty lies with him." Kakashi said.

"Yet you wear their symbol." The leader said back.

"You know who I am. You know of the Sharingan. If it wasn't for that I wouldn't be."

Sasuke looked at Kakashi when he said that. Sasuke never even thought about the forehead protectors and where their loyalties lied. To Sasuke it was about this war and then that would be it. He figured everyone would go about their life like usual and Sasuke would be left to figure his out. He never even wondered if anyone was loyal to him.

"I think there are um…" Sasuke tried, but he just couldn't get his mind to work with so many people. He knew the word he just couldn't think of it.

"Um" Sasuke said with his hand on his forehead, but he just couldn't think of the word. Sasuke looked at Kakashi hoping he would know what he was trying to say.

"Assumptions?" Kakashi suggested.

"Thank-you. I think there are assumptions as to why everyone is here. You can make assumptions about us, but um… we can about you. Shouldn't the um… reasons matter more." Sasuke said.

Kakashi was proud of Sasuke. He was uncomfortable and anxious, but he was trying to get the leader to understand. The leader looked at Sasuke, he knew about Sasuke. Most of the smaller villages did. Orochimaru was often spoken about in them for he was the one that was in charge of the slavery. The leader had seen Sasuke a few times and he always felt bad for him. He had heard that Sasuke was sold to Orochimaru to protect Konoha. It was why he hated Konoha so much. They sold an innocent child to that man. The leader was also one of the very few who knew that Itachi killed Orochimaru and freed his brother.

"Perhaps we should speak privately. If you will just hear us out I'm sure we can come to an understanding." Kakashi suggested.

"He doesn't go anywhere without us." One of the other men said.

The leader looked at Sasuke and could see he was having a hard time with so many people. He could understand that Sasuke would be having problems after what he went through. The only reason he even entertained coming to this war was, because it was Sasuke asking. He couldn't just leave now without hearing them out.

"It's fine. We're just going to talk and hopefully we can come to an arrangement. I will go alone." The leader said.

"But Sir" The second protector started.

"We are just going to talk. I'm sure the three of us can be gentlemen."

"Please come this way and we can speak in a room." Kakashi said.

The three of them walked towards one of the rooms. Sasuke again stood close to Kakashi and the leader made sure he was on the other side of Kakashi and not next to Sasuke. They got into the room and Sasuke turned on the light. Sasuke was trying to be strong and have confidence, but he just didn't. He just wanted to hide and he knew he couldn't right now. He had to do this for Itachi.

"How are you feeling Sasuke? You look better than the last time I saw you." The leader started off.

"I've seen you?" Sasuke asked confused.

"Yes a few times. I've spoken to you before, but you never spoke back from the mask."

"I'm sorry I don't remember." Sasuke said sadly.

"That's okay you were always so exhausted. I would be surprised if you remembered your own name back then."

"What's your name?" Kakashi asked.

"Yoshi Sukki. I am the general to this army. I am not a ninja, just a man trying to protect these villages."

"I'm sure there are a lot of assumptions. I would like to start off by saying I personally didn't know about Sasuke being sold or about what has been happening in these villages. We travelled from Konoha with a group of Konoha ninjas and three Sand ninjas. Gaara the Kazekage was one of them. He also has no knowledge of any of this. He has terminated the treaty with the other six nations until this matter is taken care of and anyone that is at fault is punished. His ninja will be here to fight as well. The group we travelled with, we spilt up to make things easier the remaining ninja will be here in a few days. The Hokage didn't know about this either and she is looking into it. We want to help end this for you and for the other villages. We saw a village yesterday and we took pictures of the children. We sent it back to the Hokage and she will send out a squad to help that village." Kakashi said.

"You think, because you took a few pictures that will make up for everything? For decades children have been dying while your village and the others take profit in it."

"I don't think this will make up for it. I don't think an apology will make up for it. I think it's a start, a very small start to correcting the problem. I understand your mistrust, but not everyone in the village knew about this and not everyone stands for it. I want to work together with you on this and not against you."

"I understand this is a um… major problem for you and your men. It's a um… top priority to you. It is to me as well. You said you came here to fight for me. I need you to fight for me, because if we lose this war the slavery won't matter. Everyone will be dead. You need to fight to protect those children and your loved ones. I'm not asking you to join the seven nations. I'm asking you to fight for me, to fight for the innocent people and children in this world." Sasuke said.

"In the last three years I have seen you a few times. Each time you got sicker and sicker. It angered me, because it was one thing for an outside village to sell children somewhere else. It was another thing to do it to their own orphans. I swore I would try and get you free. Now that you are I swear my loyalty to you as do my men. We will fight for you and hopefully once this war is over you will join us in our fight."

"I will." Sasuke said.

"So will I. I encourage you to speak with Gaara of the Sand once he arrives. He wants to end this as well. Maybe in the past the Sand has had their hand in it, but he won't stand for it."

"I will speak to him. I hope your brother is okay Sasuke."

"What do you know about Itachi?" Kakashi asked immediately on edge.

"I saw his brother about a year ago. He came to the village asking about Sasuke. If anyone had seen him. I gave what information I had. When I heard that Orochimaru was dead I knew he had finally found you. I hope he is okay after the fight with Orochimaru."

"He's good. You can't um…" Sasuke tried to get his mind to work, but it was only getting worse with everything.

"You can't tell anyone about it. Itachi is in a very dangerous situation and that piece of information could not only get him killed, but put Sasuke in danger." Kakashi finished for Sasuke.

"I have no intentions of telling anyone. I have no interest in other people's doings. If Itachi is helping in some way with this war then the more help the better. Do we have a plan?"

"Not yet, but there is work to be done. The war will happen here and we need to stock up on everything and repair the damages." Kakashi answered.

"Stock up on what? There are ten villages nearby that we have complete access to."

"Medical supplies are the most important. We need food, weapons, tools to repair the damages, and beddings."

"Do you have medics?"

"We have two right now another is with the second group and whatever medics are with the Sand ninjas."

"I have no proper medics, but I do have some men that know basic first aid. Let me get my men organized and we can set up groups to go and get some things."

"Perfect. We will speak to the rest of the group that is here and see what they found on their search of the castle. Meet back at the front in twenty?" Kakashi asked.

"That works."

"If you wouldn't mind, I just need a minute alone with Sasuke."

"Of course. I'll go and update my men and sort everything out with them."

"Thank-you"

Yoshi left Kakashi and Sasuke in the room alone for a few minutes.

"We went to a village yesterday?" Sasuke asked confused.

"We did and nothing happened. We just took some pictures and sent them off to Tsunade. That's it. You're anxiety is up."

"It's just a lot of people. I'm trying."

"Sasuke no one said you had to do everything. Let me help you. I can deal with the ninja and all the people. You can just focus on a plan. Let me worry about dealing with everyone."

"That's not fair to you."

"What's not fair is what has happened to you." Kakashi said gently.

"I don't want to talk about it." Sasuke said in a hurry.

"I know. You don't have to do this alone. I'm right here for you. Let me worry about them you just worry about a plan."

Sasuke let out a sigh. "Ok"

"Why don't you go into your room? You haven't been alone in a week. Take a little time to just breathe and be alone. It will help get your anxiety down." Kakashi gently suggested.

"Ok. You're right I need to think. We need a plan."

"We do, but you also need to heal and take care of yourself. Just relax and get your anxiety down. Let me take care of this and when everyone is set I'll come and see you and we can work this out."

Sasuke gave a nod and they left the room together. Kakashi walked Sasuke down to the room to make sure he was alright.

"I'll be back shortly. Just try and relax. We have time."

"Ok"

"I'll be back"

Kakashi left the room and Sasuke stood there just looking around. There was a bed in the room, but Sasuke knew he would never use it. Sasuke looked over at the closet and he immediately went over to see if it would open. Once it did open Sasuke went inside and closed the door behind him. Sasuke sat down in the corner of the closet and just closed his eyes to try and get his anxiety down. Sasuke could feel his body shaking slightly and he knew he had to get a grip on himself. He couldn't break down he had to be strong. Kakashi headed back to the front entrance and saw that Sasuke's squad and his own was back and looking at the group outside.

"Where's Sasuke?" Juugo asked.

"He's in a room right now. He's fine just feeling a little anxious with all the people."

"Are they going to fight for Sasuke?" Karin asked.

"They are. Their leader is Yoshi Sukki and he has agreed to fight for Sasuke. He's just letting his men know. There are ten villages around here so we have a chance at getting supplies. I'm going to send Naruto and Sakura out with his men to collect supplies. I want to stay with Sasuke and see if I can get him to sleep. Juugo, Karin and Suigetsu I want you to stay here in case any more show up."

"The rooms on the east end are in rough shape. There are bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens they will need some repairs." Juugo said.

"The infirmary has nothing but dust." Karin said.

"Sakura, I want you to focus on medical supplies. Yoshi has some men that have first aid training take them and try to find a hospital. Get as much as you can. We will start with the closest villages and if we have to we can spread out." Kakashi said.

"Ok" Sakura said.

"I'll me go and speak to Yoshi and see if he is ready." Kakashi said as he headed over to where Yoshi was waiting.

"Where's Sasuke?"

"He's in a room. I'm sure you have questions."

"He has a hard time with words. Is he okay?"

"He's just exhausted. He was really sick and injured until yesterday. He has pneumonia right now and is in need of an anti-biotic. He does have anxiety and that is why he was having a hard time. He's not used to being around anyone and now he's around a bunch of people and it's giving him a hard time. Sasuke is the one in charge and making the plan, but it will be me that you and your men see more."

"That's understandable. My men and I are here for Sasuke. We are here to protect our families."

"I want the same thing that you do. Is there a hospital in one of the villages?"

"The Kita village has a hospital. It's the biggest village around here, about half a day travel. I think you would agree that medical supplies and food are the most important."

"I do and I think two larger squads should go towards them. The rest can be used for collecting bedding for the rooms and supplies to repair the damages. We do have electricity and water so that we don't have to worry about."

"I have just over a thousand men. I can send them all out and they should be back by tomorrow afternoon at the latest."

"I think they should all go out that way we can get as much as we can and then when more arrive we can get more supplies when needed."

"I do have a concern about the men. I'm not clear as to why Sasuke would request them."

"Sasuke wants to train them in weapons and hand to hand combat. He has ideas, but not a set plan. He does know he wants to have archers on the top of the castle. We can train the men to do that."

"So we need bows and arrows, swords, daggers weapons like that. Okay so one group for food, one for medical, one for weapons, one for bedding and one for tools and supplies. Five groups in total."

"Sasuke has a three man squad that has been with him for the last week. They are going to stay here. Naruto and Sakura are the other two that are from Konoha they will go with the groups. Sakura is one of the best medical ninja she is going to go with your group for the medical supplies."

"Two hundred to a group they can divide up and search all ten villages."

"Sounds good to me."

"I'll divide them up and then they can go. I would like to stay behind, look around and see what the castle is like."

"That's fine. I will be with Sasuke helping him. His squad will be at the entrance in case any more show up."

"Alright give me ten minutes maximum to get them into groups."

Kakashi gave a nod and Yoshi walked over to his men to get them set up. Kakashi went over to the others to let them know of the plan.

"Alright, Sakura you are going to go with the squad for the medical supplies. Yoshi has just over a thousand men with him. There will be five groups each with their own task. The groups are divided up into medical, food, weapons, bedding, tools and supplies. Each group has about two hundred men in it and they will be divided up again to search all ten villages. Sakura go to the Kita village they have a hospital. Get anything you need and might need. Both of you need to remember that they are here to fight for Sasuke. So they might not take to well to either of you at first. They weren't expecting anyone from the seven nations so make sure you are patient with them and they understand who you are fighting for. Yoshi is going to stay here to look around the castle. I explained that the three of you are going to be staying here as well as myself and Sasuke. Yoshi genuinely seems to care about Sasuke. He's seen him a few times over the years, so try to be nice to him."

"We will." Juugo said.

"Suigetsu, maybe you can look around the area and see if there is a stream or a lake. Maybe there are fish somewhere. We have water so it has to be coming from somewhere." Kakashi suggested.

"I can do that." Suigetsu said.

"You two go and head out with the others. Keep an eye out for any enemies, but don't try and take control. We all need to get along. We're all fighting on the same side so don't make any enemies out of allies."

"We won't Kakashi-sensei." Sakura said.

"Naruto, I want you in the squad for the tools and supplies. Your clones will be useful for carrying them." Kakashi said.

"Ok"

"Be safe" Kakashi said.

"We will Kakashi-Sensei. We'll be back before you know it." Naruto said with enthusiasm.

Kakashi, Naruto and Sakura headed to the front entrance. Yoshi has just got the squads set up and they were ready to go.

"That one is the medical squad." Yoshi said pointing to the group on the left.

"Sakura that one is yours."

Sakura gave a nod and headed over to her assigned squad.

"Which one is the tools and supplies?" Naruto asked.

"That one." Yoshi said as he pointed to the third squad on the right.

"Thanks."

Naruto headed over to his assigned squad and when they were ready each one started to take off.

"Thank-you for joining us in this war." Kakashi said to Yoshi.

"We are all fighting for the same cause. It's better to fight together then alone. I'm going to walk around and see the castle. See what needs to be repaired."

"I am going to speak with Sasuke and start the ball on a plan. I'll introduce you to Sasuke's squad."

Kakashi and Yoshi walked over to Sasuke's squad and Kakashi introduced them.

"This is Juugo, Suigetsu and Karin. This is Yoshi Sukki."

"I'm a pleasure to have you and your men here." Juugo said.

"I appreciate being included in this."

"Yoshi is going to look around. Suigetsu see if you can find any lakes or rivers."

"I'll go do that now." Suigetsu said.

"Maybe there is fish. I know these woods have many different wild animals. The men in my group are very good hunters."

"If we can hunt for meat that would be helpful." Juugo said.

"When the men get back tomorrow I can send out a group for hunting." Yoshi said.

"It's not much, but it's a start. I need to get back to Sasuke. If something happens come and get me. It's the last room on the wast end." Kakashi said.

"He needs sleep." Karin said.

"I know. I am going to try and get him to. Hopefully Sakura will find an anti-biotic for him to take."

"Kita does have a very large hospital. I'm sure she will." Yoshi said.

"You worry about Sasuke; we will worry about the rest until the others arrive." Juugo said.

Kakashi gave a nod and headed down the hallway to the west end. He wanted to give Sasuke some time alone, but he also wanted him to sleep. So far the only time he has slept was with Kakashi there. They needed a plan, but the plan could wait a little while. They still had to repair the castle and get the number of men that will be there. They also had to train men to use weapons and to fight. So the plan could wait a couple of weeks to be put together. Sasuke needed to rest and to heal before he pushed himself too hard. If he did then he would never feel better. Kakashi went into Sasuke's room to see that he wasn't there, but Kakashi could sense him. Kakashi knew that meant that Sasuke was in the closet once again. Kakashi was really worried about Sasuke being in the closet. He needed to get Sasuke used to being out in the open and not hiding in a closet. He knew that Sasuke was just used to small and dark spaces. Kakashi had to get him to start getting used to being out in the world again. Kakashi went over to the closet and opened the door. He bent down to see that Sasuke was in the corner with his legs brought up to his chest. He was shaking slightly and Kakashi knew that his anxiety was higher than he originally thought.

"Sasuke, I know this is so hard for you. I know this is all terrifying for you, but I need you to stop putting yourself in small dark places. I know your anxiety is up right now and all of this is scary. Talk to me Sasuke, tell me why this helps." Kakashi said gently.

"As bad as it was in the Sound. That hole I was kept in was home. It was the only place I was safe in. Nothing happened when I was in it. I keep telling myself it will get easier, but it hasn't. It's so loud and so bright I feel like I can't breathe all day. Now there is like a thousand people and more will come. It's so hard to breathe." Sasuke said softly.

"Sasuke, I need you to do something extremely hard right now. I need you to trust me. Not just with your life, but with your health. Trust that I want the best for you. So I need you to take my hand and come out of there. Come out and we can talk. This isn't healthy. After three and a half years being kept in a hole you shouldn't be in anymore holes."

Kakashi held out his hand and waited to see if Sasuke would take it. Sasuke looked at Kakashi's hand and Kakashi could see the hesitation on his face. This was scary for Sasuke and Kakashi could understand that. Sasuke had spent the last three and a half years being hurt. He had to protect himself and now Kakashi was asking him to trust him. Something that was very hard for Sasuke to do.

"Sasuke I know it's hard, but trust me. I won't hurt you. I just want you better, like you do. Its' okay." Kakashi said gently.

Sasuke slowly moved a shaky hand and put it into Kakashi's. Kakashi gently guided Sasuke out of the closet and into the room. Kakashi let go of Sasuke's hand and closed the closet door.

"Come on let's just sit down on the floor. I know you won't go into a bed just yet."

Sasuke sat down with his back against the wall and Kakashi sat down facing him.

"Talk to me Sasuke. A lot has happened in the last twelve hours. What are you feeling?"

Kakashi could see that Sasuke was close to a break down and Kakashi figured that it was the first time in three and a half years that it happened. A lot has been thrown at Sasuke in the last week so it was natural for him to be having serious problems. Kakashi had no problem being patent with him.

"When Itachi found me I wasn't sure why he was there. He got me to a safe place and it was like he was my brother again. He explained everything and I felt like I was okay. I felt like I could do this. I was so tired and so sick, but I thought this was something I could do. He killed the clan to keep me alive; he went to the Akatsuki to protect me. He risked his life to save me in the Sound. Helping him with this war I figured it was the least I could do. He's done so much to protect me over the years. This was something I could help him with. Each day that has gone by it's just getting harder and harder. I have brain damage."

Sasuke's voice was shaky and Kakashi could see his lip quivering. He was trying not to cry, but he desperately needed to.

"He looks at me differently. I know he does. How could he not? I'm never going to be okay. What if I can't do this? What if all the ideas I have that I think are good are bad? How can I plan a war when I can't even remember words? I have brain damage."

The tears started to come down Sasuke's cheeks and he tried to stop them. He wiped them away, but more just kept coming. Kakashi took a risk and he went over to Sasuke and pulled him into a hug.

"It's okay, just let it out. No one is going to hurt you."

Sasuke curled up against Kakashi and stopped fighting the tears. It was a losing battle they were coming whether Sasuke wanted them to or not. It was a good twenty minutes before Sasuke finally calmed down. Sasuke pulled away and before he could wipe the tears off his cheeks, Kakashi was already doing it. Sasuke's eyes were red from crying and Kakashi could still hear a hitch in his breathing.

"I want you to listen to me. There is nothing you can do or say that will make me angry with you. You get to feel scared and hurt. Sasuke after everything that has happened to you, you get to feel lost and confused. A lot has been taken from you. A lot has happened to you and changed you forever. You have permanent damage to your spine and your brain. You get to be scared and upset over it. You can't let that defeat you though, you can't quit. I believe in you. I believe you can do this. The brain damage doesn't affect your intelligence. It doesn't change the fact that you are one of the smartest people I know. I believe in you, but if you feel that you truly can't handle this then all you have to do is say so. Your brother wouldn't want you to push yourself past your breaking point. He would understand if you couldn't do this. The choice is yours, but I do believe in you."

"What if I screw this up?"

"You won't. You're not alone in this. I'm right here for you. I will help you through every step of this. Shikamaru is very good with strategy he will be here to help as well. You don't have to do this alone. I meant what I said. I am here for you. I am loyal to you, not to Konoha. I believe in you with everything in me. You can do this I know you can. You got to have some faith in yourself."

"Ok" Sasuke said with a shaky breath.

"I can't stress enough that Itachi doesn't think differently of you. I don't think differently of you. I think you are so strong and so brave to have survived the last three and a half years. I know Itachi would say the same thing. We still care about you just like we always have. I look at you Sasuke and I see this strong and brave sixteen year old. I am so proud of you. I love you like a son and there is nothing you can say or do that will push me away. We will get through this together I promise you."

Kakashi saw Sasuke's lip quiver again. "I missed you."

"I missed you." Kakashi pulled Sasuke into another hug as he spoke. "You need sleep."

"I know." Sasuke pulled back from Kakashi.

"I know you won't go on the bed. So why don't you lie down and put your head on my leg."

"What about all of the men?"

"They are all gone to scout for supplies. The only people here are your squad and Yoshi. They won't be back until tomorrow. You need to sleep so just lie down. I'm not going anywhere."

Sasuke gave a nod and he moved to lie down on his side. Kakashi moved so Sasuke could put his head on his thigh. Kakashi moved his hand so he could stroke Sasuke's hair.

"Does this bother you?"

"No. His touches were never like that." Sasuke said softly.

"Just focus on my touch. If you have a nightmare I'll be right here to help you through it. Just relax and close your eyes."

Sasuke closed his eyes and just focused on Kakashi running his hand through his hair. It was soothing and soon Sasuke was fast asleep.

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A/N: I want to clear one thing up real quick. I will explain how Sasuke was taken in the next chapter maybe. I know Sasuke is sixteen and a half technically, but I want to clear up that Sasuke was taken just after the Chounin exams. So if he seems a little emotionally stunted that is because he's spent three and a half years being tortured. So he has to go through all of the emotions. At times he will be fine, but he is still traumatized and I want that to be as real as possible. The trauma will show up more and more as the story goes on. The other Konoha ninja will also question Konoha and who they are fighting for. I don't want to blow over the impact that Sasuke being sold will have on them. I've done some research on brain damage, but if anyone has any first-hand experience please feel free to let me know.