A/N

Thanks for all the reviews!

Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I own Nao and that's it.

"You know, I always wanted a tattoo." I say aloud, examining the design on my stomach. "But somehow, this wasn't what I had in mind."

The Kyubi grunted in reply, his usual answer for anything I said.

"I mean, it's not that it's ugly or anything; it's even got my clan symbol on it, so that's kind of cool. I just hadn't pictured getting one unconscious and unwillingly, or having it come with a tailed beast. Those are the kind of things one might want to know about first."

"Yes, poor Hime. It must be very hard for you, being able to move freely of your own accord and having access to an immense power without even trying." The Kyubi replied sarcastically. "What could be worse? Oh, right; being in a cage for ninety years."

"… Right." I admit. "Sorry."

It was something that ate away at me, that he was a prisoner and I his jailor. Guilt pressed down on me each time I thought of it, so I had been trying to forget. It was yet another thing that kept me up at night. How had Kushina slept so easy, knowing she had the key to unlock his cell yet unwilling to use it? But maybe she didn't see it that way; to her, the Kyubi was just a monster. She didn't think about whether he had feelings or dreams.

"This is our fourth meeting." The Kyubi stated. "Yet you have told no one of our communication, not even your precious Kakashi. Why is that?"

"Because," I replied. "It's no one's business what I do. If any of them asked, I'd tell them of course, but I won't go out of my way to do so. Besides, I don't particularly react well to having my decisions taken away from me, and it could happen."

An understatement to say the least.

It had only been about a week since our acquaintance, but I had tried to come as much as possible. The Kyubi was someone I could confide in without fear of revealing anything sensitive. It was like having a diary; granted, it was a bitchy one that could talk back. Still, I was beginning to enjoy coming here. I didn't have to be careful of what I said or did, because it hardly mattered if he could tell how things about me didn't add up.

This dark sewer had become a sort of safe haven from the outside world. If I wanted, I could sit here in absolute silence and not be bothered. I was having a hard time with that in reality. I barely ever got a moment to myself nowadays. Everyone was up my ass, wanting to know how I was feeling, or something equally obtuse.

The answer was always the same. I felt fine, no I was not hungry, yes I still wanted to skin Minato. Kushina was the worst, always hovering nearby. She appeared out of thin air every time I left my room, wanting to talk about my "duties" as a Jinchuriki, or giving me tips as how to deal with the Kyubi. As if she could be of any help there. I had simply started to never leave my room, just to avoid her.

"Ah, yes." The Kyubi hummed. "I recall a memory of you attempting to cut your own throat. Do not try anything like that again."

"Yeah, yeah. I die, you die. We're in this together and all that fun stuff."

Speaking of that, Kushina must have mentioned some worries about me being suicidal, because Minato was always watching me, like he was waiting for me to snap or something. He had told me that as Jinchuriki I would be getting my very own therapist, and I had been excited at reuniting with Lou. Instead though I ended up with a different Yamanaka; I guessed it was because Lou didn't have enough clearance.

My new therapist turned out to be Inoichi. I found this odd, because he was supposed to be a clan head and do whatever it is they do. Apparently the guy had some free time on his hands though. He came over twice a week for our sessions, and I had to wonder if he had told his teammates about my status. I had to assume he would, based on the fact that their children are close friends with me, and therefore in risk of danger. It was unprofessional, and probably illegal and also a violation of my rights, but I couldn't bring myself to care that much. Shikaku was a genius anyway, he'd figure it out on his own.

I hadn't bothered to even try seeing my friends after everything. I wanted to think if they found out they wouldn't care, but logically, they were just kids. I couldn't expect them to be so understanding at this age, especially after witnessing the tailed beasts during the last attack. In the series, they had been mere babies, unable to actually remember it. Things were different now, and I would be surprised if neither of them had been traumatized by the event.

Naruto certainly had been. He would ask if the monsters were coming back or not, with a distant gaze. He wasn't in the know about me, which was probably good. Just like before, Minato was claimed to have slayed the nine tails. The other had apparently gotten away, but secretly I pondered on whether he had taken the opportunity and sealed it in someone else.

I wouldn't put it past him.

Then again, maybe I was being biased. It wasn't like Minato was some heartless villain. His actions were a result of his will to protect Konoha after all. I knew this, but still I could help but feel a bit like an unwilling martyr, which pissed me off. Shit happens, and I had simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time, that's all. It could have just as easily been Naruto in my place.

Hell, maybe he had the Sanbi in him; I'd be the last to know if he did. It seemed a bit risky to me, for Konoha to have two tailed beasts. Then again, didn't Kumo have two as well? It had been such a long time, my memories were fading. I briefly contemplated writing it all down in a notebook, but as soon as the thought entered my mind I dismissed it.

That was literally asking for me to get caught.

The best course of action would be for me to go through the timeline of everything I knew each night before bed. It wasn't a perfect solution, but it was the best I could do. The human mind can be trained to remember certain things, like how children are taught songs repetitively to help with their learning process; I still can't go through the alphabet without singing it.

That process was called reflexive memory. While it was commonly used in my past life for children, here it seemed like something ninja would profit from far more greatly. A part of what makes reflexive memory so useful is that it's not restricted to mental facilities; it can also improve physical skills, and it's so easy to utilize. The key to successfully doing it was practice and repetition. That's it. All I had to do was make up a game to go with my timeline and do it every night before bed.

High school had accidentally taught me a life skill.

Astounding.

My gaze wandered to the Kyubi, who was laying with his head rested on his hands. It was such a bizarre sight, because while he was a fox, his upper body structure was distinctly human. He even had apposable thumbs. Distantly I wondered if all the tailed beasts had similar physical attributes. How unfair would it be if they didn't, unable to enjoy the small things we take of granted? What would life be like if we had all been born without thumbs?

Stupid question, really.

"What was it like? Before you got sealed?" I ask, trying to distract myself from inner madness. "What did you do all day?"

The Kyubi growled in annoyance. "You are more insufferable than my previous host."

"Hey! I resent that!" There was no way I was worse than Kushina.

"It's true." He scoffed. "She was perfectly happy leaving me be, but you? You want to talk. You are the most irritating, nosiest human I have ever had the misfortune of meeting."

"How rude, and I thought we were getting to be fabulous friends; besties, even. You continue to break my heart, Kyubi-chan."

He bared his canines at me. "Do not refer to me in that way, insolent brat!"

"Well, maybe I wouldn't have to if you'd just tell me your name. How about this; if you tell me, then I'll go away for a week. Oh, and I won't be so nosy when I return."

I hoped he complied. I had spent a lot of time and effort trying to wear him down. Annoying others was a special talent of mine, and I figured not even the great nine tails was immune to my charms.

"I wish you would never return." He sighed exasperated.

"Sorry friend, but we're stuck with each other. Might as well make the most of it right? You know, I have lots of stories I could tell you. I haven't talked about myself yet, and maybe that's what's missing in our companionship. Communication is key to a healthy relationship, after all. So how about I –"

"You may call me Kurama-sama." He said venomously. "Now, away with you."

I laughed victoriously. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ku-ra-ma!"

I opened my eyes, settling back into reality. I'd been sitting in a meditation position on my bed in the early dawn when I had entered my mindscape. Now the sun shone in brightly, high up in the sky. I estimated the time to be around twelve, and debated on whether I had the energy to deal with another family breakfast/lunch. I was hungry though, having forgotten to eat last night.

With a sigh, I rolled of the bed and dragged myself over to my wardrobe. Since I never left the manor anymore, I had taken to wearing pajamas all day. Today would have to be an exception though, because Inoichi would be coming over for another session. After our last two where I hadn't bothered to change, he had taken it upon himself to explain the benefits of wearing day clothes and the positive effect they had on the mental state, all while eyeing my jammies meaningfully.

I didn't need to give him any more reason to think I was depressed, so I threw on a bright pink dress. Maybe the color would blind him and I'd be able to cut our session short; doubtful, but a girl could dream. I didn't bother putting my hair into their standard pigtails.

It would take far too much effort.

I combed my fingers through my untangled hair as I made my way down the stairs and through the far door. I paused for a moment to stare at the new carpet in the wide hallway. They hadn't been able to get Haruka's blood out of the wood floor, so someone had gotten a new fluffy rug to cover the stain. I didn't like it; I felt like it was hiding what had happened, and Haruka didn't deserve that.

Her funeral had come and gone, with the entire manor's residents attending. Minato and Kushina had paid for everything, which was nice, and a lot of people had gone, offering condolences to her family. They had stood in the front, a man and two little girls. I had never thought she would be the type to have children, and it was awful that they would now have to grow up without their mother, knowing she had been murdered.

I walked around the rug, going straight through the open door into the kitchen. As per usual everyone sat at the table, eating a healthy meal. This time, the table was full though. Along with the usual crowd was Minato's sense. Naruto sat on Jiraiya's lap, babbling about something and waving his hands for emphasis while across from him Obito listened with an amused expression.

I froze for a moment. When he never showed up, I had assumed Jiraiya had taken off again. I knew for a fact that he had helped seal me that night. Minato hadn't been able to do it himself before; that's why he had been force to sacrifice his soul and split Kurama's chakra in two. I wasn't ready to deal with the other man responsible for my newly acquired status, not without becoming violent.

He must have felt my stare, because Jiraiya looked up and our gazes met. Something flashed through his eyes but I didn't get a chance to see what before his expression went completely blank. Neither of us looked away and in the back of my mind I wondered what he saw, looking at me. Someone cleared their throat.

"Good morning, Nao-chan." Minato chimed.

I broke the staring contest, my gaze sliding to Minato. Everyone was watching me now, and it made me agitated; I was not an exhibit at a museum. "It's afternoon." I muttered, turning away to find food.

On the counter were pancakes and bacon, but I ignored those. I went to the fridge, digging out an apple. Biting into it, I spun around, intending to leave the crowded area. Kakashi flickered into my path, blocking it.

"Why don't you eat with us today?" he asked.

"Pass."

"Why not?"

"There isn't enough room." I said, eyeing the full table.

"We can grab you another chair. Come have breakfast."

"I'd rather not…"

I was ignored of course. Kakashi picked me up around my middle and plopped me into his chair, before making another appear. People slid to make room, and I ended up squished between Kakashi and Obito. I sighed in defeat, taking another bite out of my apple. Naruto crawled into Rin's lap, still talking. There was a tug on my hair.

"No pig tails today then?" Bakashi asked.

"Nope."

"Well, at least you got dressed for once."

"What's wrong with pajamas?" I ask, feeling vaguely insulted. "They're comfy."

"They're not suitable to wear all the time."

"Alright, mother. So sorry to hurt your delicate sensibilities with my attire."

"So!" Kushina interrupted, sensing an argument. "How are you feeling today, Nao-chan? Having any trouble sleeping? I know I did when I first became a Jinchuriki, what with the change in chakra."

I looked over to Naruto, surprised she had mentioned it in front of him, only to find him and Rin gone. I knew the rest of team seven had been told, but it still felt strange talking about it in front of Obito. Somehow, I got the distinct feeling that I had walked right into an ambush.

"I'm fine." I respond reflexively.

I wasn't, of course. I didn't sleep well at night. Either from my guilt, or the foreign chakra, or the nightmares. I wouldn't tell any of them about it though; that's what Inoichi was for right?

Even if he doesn't seem to be helping.

"That's good." Minato says. "The academy starts next Monday, and I had you enrolled. We were thinking you might want to go shopping for a new outfit. Its tradition and Naruto already picked out his. We could go today if you want, after Inoichi's visit."

That's what everyone called it, a visit. Like Inoichi was just popping by for tea rather than checking on my mental state. Why couldn't they just say therapy session? It wasn't a dirty word; simply the truth. I wasn't so fragile that speaking the words would break me. How did I get stuck with them?

"I can take her." Kakashi offered.

"I'd rather go alone actually." I murmured, eyeing Kakashi. "Wouldn't want to hurt anyone's delicate senses."

Hatake Kakashi, copy ninja and fashion police extraordinaire.

"Really?" Minato faltered. "So you'll leave the manor? Willingly?"

"Yes."

God, you'd think I was a hermit or something.

"I'll just put everything on your hokage tab." I added thoughtfully.

"Right." He replied. "I'll have your new ANBU guard ready to escort at two."

Ah yes. I had forgotten about that in all the chaos. My previous guard had died in the explosion. It was sort of my fault, in a way; they never would have been there if they hadn't been guarding me. While I did feel slightly guilty, it was easy to overcome. I had never seen their faces or talked to them, it was like standing at a stranger's grave; sad that they died but in a distant sense.

Wait.

Escort?

"What do you mean by escort?"

"Well," He began. "Last time I had ordered them to stay in the shadows, and act if necessary. That didn't exactly work out now did it? So this time, I chose two that could easily blend in with you. They'll be undercover. Nao, I trust you to keep their identities as ANBU a secret. In return, they have been made aware of your situation and sworn to secrecy."

"How many people know about me anyway?" I ask. "It doesn't exactly seem like much of an S-rank secret since most of the people I've met already know."

"The elder council knows, of course." Minato said. "And the major clan heads. Everyone here, obviously, and your new guard. Only a handful of people really."

"Right."

It was a given that the council would know. I wasn't surprised that the clan heads were informed either; it was a smart move on Minato's part. One of them would have found out and then the rest would have as well, and they'd be angry about not knowing. It'd all be one big political disaster. On the bright side, Kurama never made it out of that clearing to kill people, so even if the whole village found out I had little to fear from them.

In the distance I felt Inoichi's chakra approach. When it grew close I sighed and stood up, shuffling out of the kitchen to greet him as he knocked on the door.

It was going to be a long day.

"So, the academy is starting soon, and you'll be beginning your first year. How do you feel about it?"

"I feel excited to meet new people. But what about you? How do you feel about your daughter starting? It's a big event for fathers after all, the first step to letting go."

"Excited? That's excellent; I think having peers will be good for you." He ignores me, as usual. "Have you been to see your friends since our last session?"

"No," I retorted. "I'm not planning to either. I think its best if I just keep my distance. I don't enjoy lying to them and we both know that right now, my status as a Jinchuriki isn't something they'll be able to understand."

"Ah. Well, I understand your view, but I still think you should reach out to them eventually." He says it consolingly but I can tell he's unsure. "They seem to be getting better, you know."

"I'm going out today." I tell him, changing the subject. "To buy my outfit for the academy. Apparently its tradition."

"Oh?"

"Yup. I'm thinking something bright, maybe yellow."

I wasn't actually, but the idea cheered me up. Kakashi would probably have a coronary.

"A happy color." He declared.

"Have you taken your daughter shopping for her outfit yet?"

A weary sigh confirms my thought.

"Don't look so bleak, Inoichi." I said comfortingly, and then added. "It's only the beginning. Wait until she starts wearing makeup, that's when it really starts going downhill. Oh, and soon she'll be talking about boys… yeah, never mind."

"How do our sessions always end up with us talking about Ino?"

"I don't know." I reply. "Maybe you're projecting your fears. It's kind of sad that a six year old is picking up on these things. You should talk to someone about that; a therapist, perhaps."

He gives me a look and I smile innocently, saying nothing. I didn't expect him to call me out on it anyway; I was lucky I could even keep up with him. He always steered us back to whatever topic we're discussing, but I was proud that I could manage to slip us off track in the first place.

"How are you sleeping?" He asked. "Still having nightmares?"

Yes, I was. Usually it revolved around dead people, ones I knew. A new one had emerged though, and I wasn't sure which nightmare I preferred anymore. This one always started with me running, then it would end with me in thick, heavy chains, being dragged under. Sometimes I would end up in a smaller version of Kurama's cage, surrounded by villagers. They would whisper and point at me, but for some reason they never had eyes. I knew Inoichi was here to help, but I really didn't want to talk about that.

"Oh, dear." I said, looking at my wrist. "The time just flies! Alas, I must be getting ready. My escorts will be arriving soon. Let's do this again some time."

I stand, pulling Inoichi to his feet. Or rather, he allows me to. I proceed to enter his personal space, herding him toward the door. "Sunday then, same time? Don't be late okay?" I sing, shoving him out the door. "Farewell!"

I shut the door, ignoring Inoichi's baffled expression. I still had half an hour until my guard arrived, but I wasn't sure I wanted to get presentable. My hair was a nest, and my clothes were crinkled. Kushina would probably tear my head off if I didn't bother to shower; which was fair I supposed, considering I looked like a raggedy Anne doll.

Groaning, I made my way upstairs and into the shower. Even with conditioner it took ten minutes to get the knots out. It had probably been pointless for me to dress for Inoichi; I hadn't fooled anyone really. Wrapping a towel around myself, I went through my clothes. Today would be the first time I'd be seen in public since the attack; a lot of eyes would be on me, the Namikaze princess whose "daddy" slayed the big bad demon.

It was gag worthy, to be sure.

I picked out a deep green dress and matching hair bows. It was a muted color, and something about it comforted me. I did everything at a snail's pace, trying to kill some time. When I was done and crawling back down the stairs a knock sounded at the door. I sped up to a normal walk, reaching the door and opening it with a polite expression.

Then I looked at the people stand on my doorstep and laughed once, before shutting it in their faces.

"Minato!" I called through the manor, raising my voice almost to a shriek to be heard.

"What?" He asked, appearing out of thin air and making me jump.

"There are some lost children at the door." I informed him, opening it and gesturing out.

Itachi stood on the front porch with some other kid who looked about fourteen. They both wore dark colored shirts and looked similar, making me assume the extra to be an Uchiha. It was strange seeing them there, sort of like seeing a dolphin walking on two legs; disturbing yet oddly fascinating. Honestly, I'd pretty much thought I would never cross paths with Itachi again.

I hadn't had any intention of seeing his baby brother after our last adventure, so I figured there would be no reason for us to. Now here he was, stoic expression and all. He'd even brought along a friend, one I suspected I knew. Shisui was the only other Uchiha I remembered being in ANBU, and it made sense that he would be paired with Itachi given their close relationship.

"Uh, Nao-chan?" Minato said, catching my attention. "These are your escorts."

"Oh. I see how it is." I narrowed my eyes. "You endanger my life and can't even be bothered to find me new ANBU guards? Is it because I got the last ones blown up? Because that was an accident. Well, no it wasn't, but I can't be held responsible for bad reflexes."

I can't exactly say that I know they're ANBU, there's no reason I should know that. Reacting believably is the key to any lie, and if I happen to give Minato a hard time while alarming my new guards, it's totally necessary. I keep my expression blank as Minato clears his throat.

"They are ANBU. Two of my very best, I promise. They'll be better protection, no one would expect it, you know?"

It was a poor excuse, but he knew I didn't actually care for one.

"If you insist." I hum, moving out the door. I pause, before adding. "Kakashi will be devastated when I tell him you said that."

I shut the door, not allowing him time to respond. I cackle internally, imagining his reaction. The boys follow behind me, and I prance out of the estate. Once we hit the streets I slow, turning to my unknown companion.

"So what's your name then?" I ask, peering up at him.

"Ah, I'm Uchiha Shisui." He says, smiling brightly.

It's a contagious kind, and I grin in return. "My name's Nao, but I suppose you already knew that."

"Are you kidding?" He laughs. "Who hasn't heard of the Namikaze princess? You're famous you know."

"Er, right." I didn't think I was that famous, but whatever. I turned to Itachi, who walked on my other side. "I'd say it's nice to see you again, Itachi-chan, but I'm not really sure if it is yet. How's Sasuke?"

He twitches at the added honorific, but otherwise doesn't react.

A shame.

"Sasuke is well." He replies. "He has been eager to see you, but it appears he always just misses you when he goes to visit Naruto-kun."

I didn't know Sasuke was even coming over. Probably because I was never at the manor; this last week had been the longest I'd ever spent there, strangely enough.

"I see. Well, send him my regards." I pause. "And remind him that he owes me dango."

He didn't really, but Sasuke was a child; he'd think he had forgotten. I figured it was a fair deal, he'd get to see me and I'd get free food. A onetime thing of course, and a possible chance to get some dirt on Itachi.

As we approached the busy heart of Konoha my smile faded, and my mask went up. I held my chin up slightly and moved with grace, my back straight. The transformation happened between one step and the next, and I could see my companions taking note of the difference. Neither said anything about it, they simply took formation on each side of me, lagging back a bit to let me take the lead.

The road was bustling with activity, but like always my path was clear as people moved out of the way, some pausing in their activities to watch as we went by. I walked with purpose, wanting to get to the store and out of sight as soon as possible. Somehow, it felt worse than usual; maybe because I want different this time, with more secrets to hide.

I really was going to become a hermit if this continued.

"Kami." Shisui muttered. I looked over, and though he seemed relaxed, I figured he was unnerved by all the attention. He met my gaze. "Is it always like this?"

I laughed lightly at his tone. "This," I told him. "Is only part of it. Wait until we go eat."

We entered the clothing shop, and I felt my shoulders relaxing. The attendants must have remembered me from last time, because they all greeted me personally. After thoroughly denying their assistance, I wandered through the racks. I already had an idea of what I wanted, and it didn't take me long to throw an outfit together. A handful of long sleeved shirts, some shorts, and two pairs on ninja sandals were really all I needed.

I went to the back, where the accessories were. I did get some black ribbons, and a pretty ornate fan that was actually sharp enough to be a weapon, but other than that there wasn't anything else to add. I placed everything on the checkout counter, watching with vindictive glee as the price grew. The fan had been expensive.

"It's going on our tab." I tell the cashier.

When everything is put into bags I snatch them up, thanking the ladies as we leave. Outside, I glance left, and then right before moving in that direction. The Uchiha boys trail behind me, doing god knows what while I lead us to the closest restaurant. I'm half tempted to go to one of the Akimichi places, but fear of running into my friends stops me.

We enter a restaurant and are seated at a table. I sit across from the boys, setting my four bags on the chair beside me. The hostess had given us a table in the middle, surrounded by others. People stared, whispering and being completely obvious about that they were doing. It annoyed me, and I made sure to meet as many gazes as possible, staring until people became uncomfortable and looked away.

As I did this, I noticed something strange. Itachi and Shisui were getting almost as many looks, and not a lot of pleasant ones. Most eyed them suspiciously, looking between us in confusion. Was I such a loner that people found it odd when I was seen with others? That couldn't be it, because I could be seen with Shika and Chouji regularly before. What was the issue then? My gaze wandered over my two companions, and suddenly something clicked.

The night of the attack, both tailed beasts had been under the control of the sharingan. This meant the Uchiha were under a lot of suspicion, just like last time. That was why the stares had been so intense today. Minato would have known about this, of course; that sneaky man. He had dragged me into the village's politics while simultaneously trying to make me happy. I'd wanted to go alone after all.

Did Minato think it wise to involve a little girl in this kind of thing? If I, the 'Namikaze princess' was seen publicly being amicable with two Uchiha, one of which is the heir, its sending a strong message.

The Hokage trusts the Uchiha.

It irked me that I didn't figure this out sooner, but I wasn't really angry. At least my fame was being used for good right? That said, it disgusted me that all these people had the nerve to act in such a way around mere children. What point were they trying to prove? Where could the children have any involvement in the attack? Idiots; every single one of them. A waitress came by and took our order.

Well, if Minato was trying to make a statement, he was about to get one.

"So," I began, speaking a bit louder than necessary. "How is your clan doing? I know after everything they must be busy, what with the police force and all that."

"They are doing well, thank you for asking." Itachi replies.

"That's good. The Uchiha are such a help to Konoha, you know? I don't know how we would manage without them. I mean, they protect the civilians and whatnot, which is a tough job. My, er –father- is really impressed with the Uchiha's commitment to the village."

Both boys give me strange looks for a second before catching on.

"It's an honor, really." Shisui says. "We'll have to show our gratitude, I wasn't aware that the Hokage thought so highly of our clan."

"Oh, it isn't just him," I murmur. "The Namikaze family also supports the Uchiha. We will continue to stand beside you against those vicious rumors circling your clan. It's a shame, that after all the help the Uchiha gave during the attack, people would even believe such a thing."

Minato really shouldn't have given me such an opportunity. Village politics mattered little to me, and recently I had felt vindictive toward Konoha; I had no qualms about making some waves and possibly earning the ire of a couple clans. Besides, the Uchiha probably had nothing to do with the attack.

"On behalf of my family and village, I would like to apologize. The suspicion placed upon your clan is unwarranted and unjust, and I am ashamed in those who could believe and act on such nonsense. The Uchiha are one of our founding clans, they deserve better than this."

It's silent for a moment, as the eavesdroppers process my words. Maybe it was a bit of overkill, but I had wanted to make a point and now? I'm five hundred percent sure I did. Itachi and Shisui look stunned, that I would go so far for their clan. Understandable of course, I didn't particularly care about the Uchiha clan. What bothered me was the way their younger members would be treated, simply for the symbol they wore.

Also, if I was being honest with myself, I didn't want Itachi to be forced to walk the path he had in the series. It bothered me, the fact that after everything Konoha put him through, he was still loyal. I didn't understand how he could remain so, because Itachi had suffered. More than anyone should ever have to. If there was one thing I would attempt to change before leaving, it was that.

Mind you, I didn't necessarily want to. Konoha was not my problem, but this wasn't about them. It was about a thirteen year old whose loyalty never wavered. And his story, it affected me deeply. Hell it changed the way I saw the world. There are some things in life that impact you so greatly, and for me this was one thing that did so. Anyone who could say differently after learning his story was either a liar or heartless.

Itachi looked at me, really looked, like he was seeing me for the first time. "Thank you." He said, voice filled with something I couldn't identify.

Our food arrived and I shrugged. As we ate I made sure to keep light conversation going, making Shisui laugh on occasion and weaving a cheerful atmosphere for anyone watching. It was surprisingly easy to get along with these two, and I could see a pattern forming. Clearly I could only stand to be around prodigies, which made sense I suppose. They wouldn't talk to me like I was an idiot and in turn I didn't have to dumb myself down for them.

The meal ended up being on the house, unsurprisingly, and we departed soon after. I allowed them to each hold a bag as we walked, and I continued talking. I told the boys stories or asked questions, interacting with both of them. When we were out of sight, my graceful gait disappeared and my posture became relaxed once more. Shisui cracked a joke, a terrible one that made me laugh anyway when a voice called out to us.

"Nao-chan?"

As one we turned, and on the intersection behind us were the Ino-Shika-Cho trio and their sons. It had been Shikaku that had spoken. I paused as my mind panicked, and the grouped started our way. I took a step back and then another before turning tail and speeding away as quickly as possible without running. My name was called by several people but only my escorts followed behind me.

I didn't slow until the manor was in sight. At the gate I snatched my bags from the boys' hands and thanked them before retreating into the manor. No one was around, for which I was thankful as I scurried up the stairs and to my room, locking the door behind me. What were the odds that I'd bump into the very people I was avoiding? I slid to the floor, dumping my purchases around me.

My heart felt heavy, and I ignored it in favor of gazing out the window. I hadn't been ready to face Shika and Chouji, not yet. They would know now that I'd been purposely avoiding them. They'd be hurt and upset, and it would only get worse once we started at the academy. What if we end up in the same class from the very beginning? How am I going to deal with that? Maybe it was stupid, what I was doing, but I couldn't help how I felt.

I wasn't good with rejection, and they weren't ready to hear the truth. It would come out eventually, I knew that, but it would be years from now. They'd be older and everything would be different anyway. I wasn't sticking around, so it was fine if we drifted apart. I would leave one day, and I knew neither of them would never abandon Konoha, so I wouldn't ask. Our paths were going in separate directions.

This was for the best, that we drifted away so early. It would hurt less, and one day I'd be just a memory at the back of their minds. It was what happened when people moved away, I knew better than anyone. Life doesn't stop just because you go; no, people change, everything continues on, and eventually you become a story told when others reminisce.

So it was for the best.

Because any other option hurt too much to think about.

I didn't leave the manor for the next week after that day. I told Kushina to not let anyone who wasn't Inoichi in to see me. I must have looked pathetic because whenever my friends came she sent them away. She even did so when Shikaku made an appearance. At dinners I could feel concerned eyes on me, but I never spoke about it and no one asked.

Kakashi had gone away on a mission, and I was lonely without him, not that I'd ever admit it to anyone. I had promised Kurama I would stop bugging him, so with nothing else to do I took to reading books from Minato's study. When it got late enough I started going to the top of the Hokage Mountain. The walk would tire me out enough that when I would finally get to bed I could pass right out.

What was mildly worrying was that every time, without fail Shisui or Itachi would always find me mere minutes after I lay out on the dirt. For some reason, I had assumed their job was more of a "call when you leave your place" type thing. Did they just wait around outside the manor all day? At one point I was curious enough to ask.

"How do you guys know when I leave? Are you sitting around in shifts or something?"

"It's classified." Itachi replied.

"Yeah, okay Itachi-chan."

It was quiet for a moment, and even though I was right next to him, it was still too dark to see his reaction. I was sprawled on my back, in my pajamas with my hair spread out around me. The ground was not clean but I hardly cared; Itachi seemed to though. Unlike Shisui, who would copy my pose, he simply sat with crossed legs.

"Why did you run from your friends?" Itachi asked, breaking the silence.

I didn't bother wondering how he had known who my friends were. It seemed like Itachi knew everything these days, which was incredibly irritating.

"I don't want to be their friend anymore." I replied quietly. "I'm a Jinchuriki now, and I can't tell anyone. Shikamaru and Chouji, they were traumatized by the attack. They wouldn't understand, you know? They're just children, barely out of toddlerhood. I don't like lying to my friends either, so they're better off if I stay away."

It was the first time I had mentioned anything about my status to him.

"What will you do once you begin at the academy?" he questioned.

"Ah," I hummed. "Distance myself from all the brats. Don't know how I'll manage it while keeping up my princess façade."

"That… seems like a lonely life."

"It is." I agree. "But life requires sacrifice. I'll survive, as usual."

"Sacrifice, huh?" Itachi whispers it, like he didn't mean for me to hear.

It was true though, in my mind at least. Everything needs balance, good and bad. To me, sacrifice is a necessary part of life.

So when Inoichi comes around on Sunday, our last session before my first day at the academy, I tell him something similar.

"Why are you doing this? You're only hurting yourself and your friends. Running away isn't an answer."

"What do you want from me, Inoichi?" I asked. "I made a decision, just like you've been waiting for me to do. I can't help it if it's not the one you wanted me to make."

"I'm trying to help you Nao-chan. How can I do that with your recent actions? Is this the kind of person you want Konoha to look up to? Because they will."

"You want to help me? Turn back time then, because that's the only way you could ever help me. There's nothing else you can do now. I'm not a clock that you can just fix, alright? There isn't some magical solution for me, and I'm sorry that bothers you, but it's the truth. Some people are born with missing pieces, I happen to be one."

Reincarnation didn't give me the clean slate it should have. I had issues in my last life, and they had carried over onto this one. I was literally born this way. He would never understand that though, because I couldn't confide in him like you're supposed to with a therapist. Was there even a point to these sessions? What, exactly, was being accomplished here? Inoichi hasn't said anything so I continued.

"You know, I didn't ask for any of this. I wasn't given a choice. Becoming a Jinchuriki was forced upon me. You criticize my actions, but did you even think about why I'd done them? You said it yourself; the boys were shaken by what happened. They need time to heal. Well, so do I, alright? And I can't do that while constantly lying to them. It's a rough situation, but I'm going to do what it takes for me to heal. Because guess what? I matter too."

I sigh. "I'm tired. I'll see you at our next session."

With that I leave, going up to my room and locking the door. I flop onto my bed for second, taking calming breaths. I know I told Kurama that I'd stay away, but five days is enough right? I close my eyes, focusing on entering my mindscape.

"What now?" He says when he sees me.

"I'm getting really sick of humans."

"Welcome to my life."

"None of them get it!" I say, pacing. "Everyone thinks they can judge me and my choices, because god forbid I make those right? These people are so freaking proud of their village, it makes me sick! Well, I don't give a damn about it."

Kurama says nothing, watching me go back and forth with curiosity.

"Why should I anyway? What has Konoha ever done for me? I am not blind like everyone else. I know that this is not the only way to live; I have seen peace with minimal violence. So how could I be expected to ever accept this way of life?"

How would I ever make it through the academy? Where my views were mine alone, and something I wouldn't be able to express freely? My mind has been molded and shaped so differently from everyone else here. Itachi thought I would live a lonely life with the way I was going, but that wasn't true. It didn't matter if I surrounded myself with people, because I would still be just as alone.

A strange creature in a foreign land.

And this was it.

My sacrifice.

This was the price I would pay for a second chance.

"You," Kurama began. "are a terribly real thing in a terribly false world, and that, I believe, is why you are in such distress. Peace? It won't ever exist here. This world is one filled with hatred, something a little Hime like you will never have enough of."

"Oh? Do you think I have no enmity in my heart? Because that would be a grave miscalculation on your part."

"No, you do have some, but not in the typical way. The way you speak of your village, it's as if you truly loathe it; but there is no malice in you. No wish to bring harm to others; not even secretly. Do you know why? Because there is no room for those kind of feelings. The hate in your heart? It's directed solely at yourself. You act like it's you against the world, but really it's you against yourself. How pathetic my host is."

"Don't criticize what you do not understand." I snap. "I'm the pathetic one? Let me tell you what happens to those like you. All that anger and scorn for the world around you? It twists you, makes you become spiteful, and after that? When your rage has been spent? All that's left is that empty feeling. You will have wasted so much energy, and for what? Nothing."

We were more alike than I had ever thought. Something about this made me sad, because there would be no happy endings for us. He would experience everything I had before. Life was the cruelest of teachers, but in the end you learn.

My god do you learn.

A/N

Good grief this took forever to write. Not a lot happened, but fillers are necessary sometimes to set everything up.

Nao's starting the academy in the next chapter, are we excited?

Thoughts? Questions?

Please Review!