Well thanks ya-all for whomever is still with me on this. Let the story continue :D

Sasuke lay sniffling in his bed, curled up on his side, his little legs tucked up to his chin. His little fingers pulled the covers tight across his shoulders, as he felt his little heart beat quickly and the shivers of fear and surprise still shivering through his body. His fingers angrily wiped away at the tears that trailed his cheeks, he wasn't supposed to cry, he was a big boy! He body stiffened suddenly and his heart rate thumped up as he heard a noise at his bedroom door.

"Sasuke sweety? What's the matter?" A soft whispering voice flowed into his room from the door.

Sasuke turned his body quickly, his tears now releasing faster as he heard the soft soothing voice of his mother. "M-mom. W-was s-so scary!" Sasuke stuttered out as he held his arms out and up towards his mother who came to sit on his bed. She enveloped him in her arms, pulling him in close against her chest in a warm hug. She began to rock her body on the bed, stroking his hair and kissing his head. "T-hey come, I-I couldn't stop… t-the sky…c-crying, t-they took…c-couldn't stop….they – they… m-mommy, gone gone!" Sasuke sputtered out between his sobs and hiccups into his mother's chest, his tears flowing as he hugged her tighter. His mother continued to pet his hair and rocked, her lips humming noises into his hair.

"Shh, shh my little one, it's okay, I'm here," she murmured quietly and continued to hum soothingly.

Sasuke sobs slowed, small hiccups escaped his lips as he continued to hold his mother tight. "M-mom. I c-couldn't help. W-why… did they take—take her away?" he sniffled. He pushed his head into mother's chest tighter, feeling her hums vibrate through her chest, finding it soothing.

"It was just a bad dream sweety, it's okay, I'm here," she answered as she began to sing through a whispering voice. Sasuke said no more as he pressed himself as hard as he could, while listening to his mother's soft whispers of her singing:

Take me,

To the magic of the moment,

On a glory night.

Where the children…

Sasuke heard no more as he drifted into sleep.

Sasuke quickly opened his eyes. Lying on his side, one arm tucked under the pillow under his head in the middle of his massive bed, he quickly scanned his surroundings. He determined he was still in his bedroom but he wasn't a child. His mother's soft singing still on playback on his head, repeating over and over the tune and the few words he heard and fading softly, like smoke being blown away by a soft breeze. The tune…the melody, it was what he was trying to remember! It was so clear now, where he had heard it from, but he couldn't grasp the entire melody. He began to quietly hum to himself the tune, going over the few words he recalled. Sasuke scrunched up his nose as he thought. He didn't recall that particular situation happening in his childhood. It was obvious he was quite young, but he couldn't think of any time that his mother every sang or hummed that tune in his adolescent years, and certainly not in his adult years. But why was he dreaming of this? Was there significance to it? Does this dream have something to do with the last one he dreamt of? Why were his memories of his childhood surfacing? Sasuke scowled. This started happening shortly after meeting the dobe. He grunted as he sat up, running a hand through his bedhead hair, frowning as he felt the oily substance in his hair. Sliding his body to the edge of the bed, he headed for the shower to start the day.

He soaked a good while under the spray, thinking back to the tune his mother whispered in his room throughout his dreams. He lost his parents long ago and a slight pang of sorrow ripped through his chest. It stung, the memory still strong in his mind of when he and Itachi were informed that one evening, the surprise that lingered throughout the halls and other members in the home, of their sudden deaths. He hung his head, his soaked bangs pressed against his eyes and he learned up on his forearms against the tile wall, allowing the scalding water to flow down his head and wash through the memories. Though their deaths were honorable, it didn't make the surprise and hurt any less. He recalls the soft face of his mother, her caring eyes and elegance in her walk and stance. She was a pinnacle of beauty and success, and Sasuke recalled her patience and kindness. His father was a proud and strong alpha, who's presence alone demanded respect and radiated authority. Even though his demeanor reeked with intimidation, Sasuke knew that his devotion to his family was fierce, and his sons were subjected to kindness and love in the home on regular basis. His mother could do no wrong in his eyes and was worshipped as a goddess by his father. His fingers flexed against the tiled wall as he felt a familiar burn come up his throat and sting his eyes. He released a quiet sob, drowning in the pleasurable memories of his parents, damn how he missed them.

Sasuke made his way down to the kitchen, finding his brother already having breakfast. A newspaper spread out at the table, Itachi nibbling on a plate of eggs, a hot cup of coffee at the ready. Sasuke filled a coffee cup and sat across from Itachi at the table. He glanced at the laid out paper, seeing if there was any news that may be eye catching. He sipped at his coffee and grab a piece of toast, taking small bites.

Itachi lifted his eyes, focusing on Sasuke momentarily before grabbing his own coffee. "Something on your mind?" Itachi enquired towards Sasuke.

Sasuke directed his attention over to Itachi, his fingertips drumming absent-mindly on his coffee mug as he chewed and swallowed the bit of toast. He took a swallow of coffee as he thought about the dream. "Itachi, do you recall mother ever humming or singing a song?"

Itachi hugged his coffee cup, his elbows on the table as he took a sip from his cup. His brows furrowed slightly, his eyes cast down, staring at nothing, as he appeared to be deep in thought. "Hn. Nothing comes to mind at this moment otouto, but perhaps something will later," he responded, placing his cup down and bringing more eggs to his mouth. "Did you remember something?"

Sasuke sipped more at his coffee before responding. "Not sure nii-san, I'm trying to figure that out." He stood to make his exit. "I'm off to the office." Itachi hummed a response as he looked back to his newspaper.

Itachi listened as Sasuke grabbed his belongings, called for Jugo and the front door closed. Hearing the Hummer driving out of the driveway was the last bit of evidence noting that Sasuke had left the home. Itachi began reading a small article about a murder in a back alley last week. The police had put out a call for any persons that may have heard or know of something to this case or of the deceased man. The name of the deceased was Riku Tanaka who had no family that the police were able to find. Itachi raised an eyebrow, 'now isn't that interesting.' He hummed to himself as he recalled where he had last heard that name. 'Could have sworn he was still in Germany, I'll will have to inform the others of this.' Itachi turned the page and began reading other areas. The sound of heels clicked on the floor as Karin came into the kitchen, grabbing some coffee and a container out of the fridge.

"Good morning Itachi-sama," she spoke with a smile as she packed her small lunch pack, grabbing a sip of coffee in between. "Anything of interest in the paper this morning?"

"Nothing outstanding really. Anything new on Naruto?" Itachi knew Karin had been keeping tabs on the blond, and in the past couple days there had been no reason for alarm regarding his behaviour. It had only been a couple days mind you, but still. He continued sipping at his coffee, waiting for Karin to respond.

"Nothing to be concerned about. We are meeting for drinks on Friday. Hopefully it will be a better meeting than the first one! That Sasuke! Honestly, he's such a child sometimes!" Karin snorted out while as she closed up her lunch pack and finished off her coffee. She grabbed an apple and took a bite. "He was such a prick to Naruto last Friday. Though, really, it doesn't surprise me, but Naruto really didn't deserve that. He's just a sweety ya know?" Karin smiled as spoke of Naruto, as she grabbed her lunch kit, taking a bite of the apple and headed out of the kitchen. "I'm off Itachi-sama. Call me if you need anything," she called out while waving her hand, the sound of heels on the floor fading.

Itachi folded the paper up, leaving it on the table. He grabbed his dishes, placing them in the sink and washed himself drying off his hands, he pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and thumbed through his contacts. After finding the desired contact, he proceeded to send a text, slipping the phone back into his pocket after he completed. He pinched his lips, humming quietly to himself as he left the kitchen and made for the library. The translations were coming along and what it revealed so far was just beginning to get more interesting.

-intermission-

Naruto dragged his feet into his work Thursday morning feeling heavy and slow. Though he tried to make himself look presentable, he found fatigue and sluggishness a difficult feeling to overcome. He wondered if he was coming down with a flu bug since the last couple nights he slept so restlessly he found himself waking feeling out of breath, drenched in sweat and a pounding headache. He felt hot, though not cold and achy as what would usually come with a virus. He felt as if he had run a marathon when he woke. His heart would be beating fast, a light film of sweat all over his body but he had discovered he was also sporting a painful raging hard on. His memories would be clouded over on whatever it was he dreamt of, and he found his frustrations growing as he tried to recall what he may have been dreaming of to wake him from his sleep, or lack thereof. During the day he felt as if he was missing something, misplaced an important document, or something else of great importance. It was difficult to explain the emptiness he constantly felt and he often found himself with an overwhelming desire to look for something. To many times he caught himself wandering around his apartment, wondering what it is that he needed to find, only to be annoyed further as he couldn't find anything.

He ran his hand through his golden tresses and sat heavily at his desk. Fuck, he felt exhausted and wanted nothing more than to just lay his head down on his desk. A heavy feeling of disappointment settled in his gut, and he almost felt the need to cry, though he didn't know why. He slapped at his cheeks, trying to get himself perked up. He couldn't afford to miss work, he just started and didn't have any sick days to take. He was trying to make a good impression with this company that hired him on a whim, or so he felt they did. Naruto slumped back in his chair and released a deep sigh. He felt his phone vibrate in his pocket, indicating a new message. Only one person it could be, since he didn't know anyone else in this city. 'I'll get some coffee,' he thought to himself, grabbing his mug off the desk and shuffling towards the staff kitchenette. He pulled out some coffee pods for the Keurig and proceeded to make himself a cup of coffee. While waiting for the coffee to brew, he retrieved his phone out of his pocket to check the messages. He had managed to get himself a brand new iPhone and promptly then entered in Karin's contact.

'Hey! How you doing today champ?' It was a message from Karin, no surprises there.

'I've had better. Sleep deprived' Naruto responded with some sad emoji's. 'Making coffee for that caffeine kick, hoping that works'

'Aw poor guy! Try some hot tea! Better for the tummy! Maybe we shouldn't meet up tomorrow night?'

'Dunno. Not feeling blah sick, just tired sick. Thinking that maybe a few shots will help me sleep soundly and willing to give it a shot! Pun intended…heh' Naruto inwardly smiled at his sad joke.

He and Karin had been texting off and on throughout the week and Karin had suggested they go out for drinks, as friends, to another local pub to relax, sit down and chat with each other. Naruto thought that would be a fantastic idea. He never asked who else would join, and a small flutter came up through his stomach at the thought of the possibility of Sasuke being there. His attitude suddenly lifted to what could only be explained as warmer. Like someone turned on the heat lamp. Naruto wondered why he would feel that way since he hadn't really met Sasuke other than their first meeting at the bar. The first impression of him wasn't that great and Naruto got the impression Sasuke wasn't interested in making new friends at all. Though Karin telling him that Sasuke was the one that found him fainting at the train, though Naruto couldn't remember that at all of course, he still found it hard to believe. Though Naruto's morals knew he needed to thank Sasuke for assisting him on the train and offering up his home to care for him, what better way to express his gratitude than at the pub where they were meeting. Except Naruto was just to shy to ask Karin about it. They were just getting to know each other after all. He had texted her that he wanted to thank her and the others properly for their assistance and Karin just brushed it off saying that's what friends do for each other. She eventually mentioned that she did mention to Sasuke how he was grateful for his help at the train station, and apparently Sasuke just gave his typical 'evasive answer' as she put it. Naruto was curious what that could mean.

'Okay, will keep plans on to meet tomorrow. Don't you dare come out if you are feelin to sick! I don't want to catch anything! lol' Karin's text buzzed in his hand, bringing him back to the present as he was lost in thought.

'Will do :)' Naruto responded before shoving his phone back in his pocket. He turned to grab his now brewed coffee, added the necessary sweetened creamer that he enjoyed and shuffled back to his desk.

-intermission-

Several agonizing hours later, Naruto found himself glancing at his watch and noting it was almost quitting time. He sagged in his chair briefly, dragging his palm down his face. He felt hot, yet not ill, as if someone cranked the heat up in the office. He knew that his armpits must be sweating, as he felt the slight dampness and was self-conscious about moving about to much, not wanting anyone to see it. 'Just gross, ugh' Naruto drew in a deep breath, determined to make it through the last hour of the day.

"Naruto, can I talk to you?" a voice broke called out and broke Naruto out of his musings. Naruto glanced to the side to see Kakashi walking towards his desk.

"Sure Kakashi-san," Naruto answered and moved to get up from his desk.

"No, don't worry Naruto," Kakashi answered quickly, "no need to get up." Kakashi stopped on the other side of Naruto's desk and appeared to smile down at him. Judging by the crinkle beside his eyes, Naruto figured he was smiling behind the mask. Kakashi raised an eyebrow just then, his eyes growing wide and he stared into Naruto's eyes. "Are you feeling alright?" he asked as his eyes quickly went over his body, appearing to hesitate on his forehead then back down to his eyes. He bent slightly forward, resting his hands upon Naruto's desk, coming in closer to Naruto's face.

Naruto flinched back and felt himself jolt with panic. He figured he didn't want Kakashi to see his unsightly wet patches on his shirt that he was sure was there from the sweat, it was embarrassing enough, but he was never one to panic about such a thing. 'Must be from lack of sleep' He quickly straightened himself up and put on a grin. He managed to stop himself from rubbing the back of his head and rubbed his palms on his slacks.

"J-just a little tired Kakashi-san, didn't sleep well last night," Naruto breathed out a response. "I don't feel ill at all. Nothing that a hot bath, tea and an early night won't help." He smiled again at Kakashi, feeling a little unsettled as the man continued to assess him with his eyes. 'What is he staring at? God I hope I don't stink!' Naruto inwardly panicked.

"You are looking a little flushed Naruto," Kakashi continued to rove his eyes over his face. "Perhaps you have a fever?" Kakashi brought out a kerchief and handed it over to Naruto.

Naruto felt the heat flush into his face and he inched back in his chair slightly away from Kakashi. His eyes then focused on the kerchief that Kakashi was holding in front of him. He looked up at Kakashi, who's kind face appeared to be relaxed and his eyes showed some concern. Naruto slowly took the kerchief, slightly confused on what he was to do with it and held it limply in his hand, blue eyes examining it then looking back up to Kakashi. Kakashi stood up straight, crossed his arms and waited. Naruto worried his bottom lip. 'Uh… what does he want?' Naruto waited for Kakashi to continue with what it was that he wanted to talk to him about as he held the kerchief in his hand.

"I have one of the partners of Freelance Fox attending the office next week Naruto, and I would like to introduce you to him. He holds a lot of shares to the company, and he likes to offer suggestions and ideas at times when he drops in," Kakashi leaned slightly forward again, placing his hands on Naruto's desk and gave a wink. "I think you will benefit from meeting him kiddo. What do you think?"

Naruto's eyes widened towards Kakashi. He was left speechless as several questions rolled through his head. 'Oh my… a chance like this comes up…when? Ever? Why me? Holy…' Kakashi continued to hover, apparently waiting for Naruto's answer. 'Why would he ask me if I wanted to meet…unless this is some sort of test…' Naruto cleared his throat and blinked suddenly. He pulled the kerchief up to his forehead, suddenly realizing how hot he felt. He wiped away at his forehead quickly, "umm, wow," Naruto whispered to himself while he struggled to calm the emotions running through his head. He stopped wiping his forehead and stood up suddenly, startling Kakashi to give a slight jump. He couldn't help but let loose a large grin towards Kakashi as he put down the kerchief on the top of his desk and held out his hand towards Kakashi. "Wow! I would be honoured Kakashi-san!" he spoke out enthusiastically as he shook Kakashi's hand. "Thank you very much for considering me!" His hand handled Kakashi's hand firmly, giving several solid shakes with confidence behind it.

Kakashi's eyes closed as he smiled behind his mask, shaking Naruto's hand, "No, thank you Naruto! I think you have great potential here, so let's show him what you got!" He released Naruto's hand as he stepped back, "I'll let you know when the meeting is and don't worry about bringing anything. Just be yourself!" Kakashi started to turn back towards his desk when he stopped, he glanced over his shoulder with a smile, "oh, Naruto, we should do drinks sometime." With that he gave Naruto another wink and headed back to his office.

Naruto watched as Kakashi walked through his office door, shutting it with a quiet click before he fell back into his chair, releasing a huge breath and kicking his legs up to make his chair spin. He threw his arms back behind his head, clasping his hands together as his chair spun lazily. He couldn't help but keep the grin on his face as he thought about his chance to meet one of the partners. 'This could be the start to something great' he thought to himself as his eyes sparkled, his thoughts running scenarios in his mind of what this meeting would consist of.

"Gross dude," a voice broke Naruto of his thoughts.

Naruto glanced over to see a man standing before his desk with thick brown hair, light brown eyes, medium build, and a friendly face. He held his hand up to his nose, pinching it as he glanced Naruto's way but there was an obvious smile behind his hand. Naruto stopped his chair from spinning to look questionably at the man. He recalled seeing the brunette around the office but couldn't recall his name. Naruto tilted his head at the man's stance, studying how the man was pinching his nose and pointing at him with his other hand. Naruto glanced to where the man's finger was pointing, looking to his left, and he felt the colour drain from his face.

"Holy shit! Sorry!" Naruto slipped his arms down quickly, horrified that this man had seen the darkening patches under his arms. 'Oh my GOD! How embarrassing!' Naruto felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment as he lowered his head and placed a hand over his eyes. "Oh my god, I'm sorry you had to see that," Naruto spit out an apology as soon as he could, feeling like he could never look this person in the eyes again. He heard a hearty chuckle.

"Dude! Don't worry, it's not like I've never seen sweaty armpits before!" The man laughed again and held out his hand across Naruto's desk. "I'm Kiba! I work at the back of the building with the other underlings," he whispered with mirth, his eyes sparkling with humor. Naruto instantly relaxed. He reached his hand out to shake and flinched as a zap of electricity snapped at their touch.

"Yo! That was wild!" Kiba barked out as he jerked his hand away and shook it about, then twisted it around in front of himself, as if seeing if there was any damage.

Naruto pulled his own hand towards his face and examined it. "Must be pretty dry in here to generate such a shock," he smiled at Kiba and just relaxed his hands on his lap.

"Either that or we are just so hot, we generate a shock!" Kiba shoved a hand in his pocket and laughed loudly. His shoulders shook with the force of the laugh and Naruto found himself chuckling softly. "Anyhow," Kiba continued through some chuckles, "it's really cool to meet you, your Naruto right?" His smile never wavered as he waited for Naruto's response.

Naruto blushed slightly and nodded, as he lowered his head slightly and looked up at Kiba through his eyelashes. "Y-yes, pleasure Kiba. I apologize that I had forgotten your name! When I was introduced to the staff, there were so many new faces and names, I hadn't been able to remember them all!" He felt at ease and comfortable with Kiba, though couldn't explain any other emotions that were heating his face or stuttering his words. But at this moment, he didn't care, he was basking in the calm aura of the conversation. Kiba kept a short conversation with him for several minutes, Naruto responding with nods, smiles and they spoke up of meeting for lunch sometime soon, and parted, Naruto couldn't help but smile at the interaction. 'Things really are looking up!' he smiled to himself as he began to pack up his desk for the end of the day had finally come.

-intermission-

Itachi stretched his arms over his head as he sat at the large wooden table in the library at his home. Small cricks and cracks were heard as he inhaled deeply and released. The large volume book was open before him, the notebook with clear writings on the page, laid beside the volume. He had been studying at the volume for several hours, going over the translations tediously, to ensure there were no mistakes. He figured it was time for an afternoon tea and snack and smoothly glided out of the library in direction of the kitchen. His thoughts still on the recent translations from the book. The historical records were starting to fall together and what could only be explained as an intricate story, has begun to come to light. Itachi found his curiosity just peeking with excitement in learning more about the historical records. As he made his way into the kitchen, a letter lay upon the table, unopened and labeled to the Uchiha Clan Alpha. Itachi fingered the letter in his hand then laid it back down again. He knew who it was from and what it would most likely say within the fine folds of the envelope. It could wait, as he made his way to the fridge to prepare his tea and snack.

Sometime later, Itachi sipped at his tea in the library, while reading the letter. He reviewed the words over carefully and pinched his lips together in thought. His fingers flipped the letter over and over thoughtlessly. His brows creased slightly, the corner of his mouth twitched slightly, and he licked his lips. He was broken from his musings when he felt his phone vibrate. He pulled the phone from the folds of his clothing and proceeded to review the message he had received. His lips then fell into a frown as he placed the phone down and brought his hand up to his chin, stroking at it with his thumb and forefinger slowly. 'Well, this news does open a whole host of new questions…' He reached for his pen and notebook. Flipping to the back of the book, he wrote on the back page after double checking his phone message. When he was finished, he opened his phone and responded to the last text message before turning back to the thick volume and continue on with his translations.

-intermission-

"Okaeriotouto. I trust your day was well," Itachi called to Sasuke as he sipped a cup of tea in a sitting room, a notebook sitting on his lap and the letter that arrived earlier in the day rested on the side table.

Sasuke ran a hand through his hair and took a seat in another chair. "Hn," he responded as he gestured Jugo to come towards him. "Scotch," he nodded and Jugo walked off towards a leather bar located at the other end of the room.

"Troubling day otouto?" Itachi questioned as he watched Sasuke inhale a deep breath.

"Nothing that could not be dealt with nii-san," Sasuke grunted back. He eyed the envelope sitting on the side table. "News from the order?" his eyes moving between the envelope and his brother. Jugo returned with a crystal glass of amber liquid, handing it to Sasuke. Jugo stepped to the side diligently and quietly.

"The message is from Orochimaru-sama. He will be arriving in the next few days," Itachi responded with boredom in his voice and sipped at his tea. Sasuke stared back impassively. Itachi silently waited to see if his brother may enquire more about the letter. Itachi wasn't one to just give information on a whim, it humored him to watch how his otouto would squirm as he tried to control his emotions. Sasuke was always the more emotional one of the two, like their mother. Their father was indeed nurturing and loving towards his family, but he lacked the ability to express physical affection. Where their father lacked, their mother filled. Their relationship was best described as ying and yang. The two of them together made a whole that gave them strength in building a family, pack and empire. The respect his parents received was incredible, though such strength always comes with threats from other areas that could jeopardize all they know. A twinge of pain shot through Itachi's chest as he reminisced through the memories of his parents. He quickly shook it off, focusing on Sasuke who now appeared to be glaring at him. He raised an eyebrow in question as a response.

Sasuke snorted and turned his attention to the swirling liquid in his glass. The liquid shot out twinkling flashes of light, as the suns rays coming through the window reflected through the crystal glass and liquid. Sasuke found himself staring at the glittering blasts that were dancing across his eyes. The room began to fade as Sasuke was held by the shimmering lights, his eyes squinting slightly as if focusing on an object, that was just beyond his reach. A flash of sun golden hair and tan skinned appeared. Half lidded sapphire eyes bore into him, as if challenging him, for what, he didn't know. The vision hazed slightly and cleared to now show a toned tan body laid out on a forest floor. The tan skin glimmering in the sun's rays, dusty coloured nipples were firm and Sasuke found heated desire rising at the thought of flicking his tongue over those buds, suckling them with his lips, tasting, twirling with his tongue, in turn emanating mews and purrs from plump peach lips of the blond. Heat began to swell in his chest, his primal alpha instincts churning with a deep hunger laced with a guttural craving. He suddenly had to have him, in every way. It as almost like he needed it as he needs air to breathe. His wolf began to claw his way out, demanding to claim the whimpering needy blond who lay upon the moss of the forest floor.

"Where are you otouto?" a voice echoed through the forest. Sasuke felt his body tense and hackles rise as a low growl was released from his chest. He blinked suddenly and felt as if he was falling back into his body, hard and heavy, by an intense gravity pull. Spots speckled across his vision as he gasped for air, trying to get a hold of the anxiety that was ripping through his senses. He felt his wolf's agitated state, rubbing at emotional areas that smashed through Sasuke's mind, overwhelming his ability to hold his composure. His lungs felt tight and wouldn't inflate as he tried to take in air, he felt as if he was drowning as he fought the urge to panic. His wolf would not respond, it continued to wail, push and shake against mental barriers as Sasuke gripped the arms of the chairs, as his glass tumbled to the floor. His muscles trembled uncontrollably, his body arched upwards as his mouth stretched into a silent scream, his legs cramped painfully tight as he felt his wolf challenge his authority on control. Then it was quiet. The shaded areas of his vision began to come into focus as he blinked rapidly. His chest involuntarily expanded suddenly as his body heaved in large gasps, as if he was without air for far too long. He felt his muscles quiver slightly and give off a dull ache, as if he had ended a vigorous exercise regimen. His heart pounded against his chest, but he felt it begin to slow. A throb of pain was felt between his eyes as his body began to relax against the chair, his breathing began to slow and regulate. Sasuke began to sense the room again, his vision, though slightly blurry, was beginning to sharpen. He brought a hand slowly to the bridge of his nose, pinching and rubbing lightly at the pain that had settled there. He felt his brother's presence beside him and tilted his head up to catch a look of distress on his brother's face. Sasuke's eyes widened slightly, a tang of anxiety shot through him at seeing his brother's worrisome look upon him.

"N-nii-san," Sasuke croaked out, his throat felt as if it was on fire. "W-what happened?" He attempted to sit up straight, suddenly feeling drained of all energy, his muscles still quivering. Itachi placed a hand on his shoulder, giving a comforting squeeze.

"I had to calm your wolf. Otouto, what do you remember?" Itachi stood and grabbed a glass of water from Jugo, he nodded his thanks.

"I-I was in a forest, there was something there…" Sasuke pulled both hands up to his temples, his fingers rubbing harshly over them, as he squinted his eyes. "I-I… fuck! I c-can't remember! It's there, nii-san, so close but – but I can't see it! Argh!" he cried out in frustration, he slammed his hands down on the arms of the chair. He grit hit teeth hard as he looked away from Itachi to the floor, ignoring Itachi handing him the water.

Itachi placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder, squeezing lightly and held up the glass with his other hand. "Drink otouto, its alright," he purred out soothingly.

"It's not alright! Fuck! What the hell is wrong with me? With it!? I-I don't fucking… damn it!" Sasuke's fists clenched and he pounded the arms of the chair again. "Ever since I met that blo—" Sasuke trailed off, his movements suddenly stilled.

Itachi tilted his head, raising an eyebrow at his brother's sudden hesitation. "Ever since you met who Sasuke?" he prompted.

Sasuke didn't respond as he snapped his jaw together, clinching his lips, his dark eyes focusing on an empty space. He leaned back slowly, his hands falling onto his lap, as he drew in a breath. He lifted his eyes up to the glass of water Itachi was still holding, grasped it and took a large swallow. "That blond," Sasuke calmly breathed out as he lowered his arm and water glass to the arm rest.

Itachi widened his eyes in surprise. "Hmm, interesting," Itachi mused. Sasuke jerked his head up towards Itachi. Itachi gave a small smile and patted Sasuke on the head, "I think it's best we find out more information before we make hasty conclusions. We will be having guests soon, and we shall ensure these situations do not become known other than to whom have already witnessed." Itachi turned to eye Jugo who bowed in response. Sasuke remained silent but gave a slight nod of his head, indicating he heard his brother speak. "Fear not otouto, we will find the answer, together," Itachi moved back to his chair and settled down gracefully. "Now, the letter…" Itachi trailed off as he reached for the envelope. "Orochimaru-sama will be arriving…."

-intermission-

Kakashi quietly closed his office door and headed for a cabinet tucked into the corner of the room. He pulled out a small box, placing it on his desk then removing the lid and then settled into his seat. He held up a corner of the kerchief over the box, letting his eyes roam over the slightly damp kerchief before dropping into the box. He slid the lid over the box, sealing the kerchief away and leaned back into his chair. He smiled softly thinking back just moments ago:

"Thank you very much for considering me!" – Naruto giving off a huge smile.

Kakashi smiled in response and moved to shake Naruto's hand.

"Thank you very much for considering me!" – Naruto began to shake his hand and smile.

Kakashi slid his one hand across the desk while Naruto shook his other hand and Kakashi grabbed the forgotten kerchief, slipping it into his back pocket.

"No, thank you Naruto! I think you have great potential here, so let's show him what you got!" He released Naruto's hand as he stepped back, "I'll let you know when the meeting is and don't worry about bringing anything. Just be yourself!"

Kakashi hummed to himself as he pulled out his phone. Selecting a contact, he held the phone to his ear. "I got the sample and I will bring it by tonight. Yes. Thank you. See you then." He clicked and ended the call, placing the phone down on his desk. He focused on the box and brought his fingertips together before his face and flexed his hands. "Well Naruto, I hope this isn't what they think it is," he whispered to himself before getting up, grabbing the box and tucking into his bag. Grabbing his jacket, he quickly locked up his cabinet and desk before switching off his office light and slipping out the door.