Kakashi's Heart

by berry5tz

Minato and Kushina were leaving him behind. But he wasn't alone. The couple's newborn son, Naruto was now cradled in his arms. With a village that couldn't care for either of them, Kakashi takes his biggest gamble. A chance for a new life for the both of them. I own nothing.

21. Family and Friends Part I

A/N: Hello everyone! Here is part one of a two part chapter. I wanted to drag this out a bit so that you could relax along with the Uchiha and their friends. I also wanted to show you a little more of the growing bond between Kakashi, Naruto and their new family. I think we all could use a couple of chapters that aren't so angst filled. Though there is still a tiny bit of angst that just had to show up in this chapter. Still that said I tried to keep this somewhat light and hopefully pleasant for you. Trust me. Once we finish this two-parter there will be plenty of angst and drama to go around. I just wanted you to have the opportunity to relax and hopefully get a laugh or two from this chapter and the following one. There is one last thing to say to you. This chapter will focus on the family. It won't be until part II when the friends come into it.

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Family and Friends Part I

The afternoon was proving to be pleasantly good for Kakashi as he made his way through the streets of his district. He had reconciled his friendship with Gai and had walked him out to the gates and was heading back home. Then he saw Shisui going down a side street called Renge Lane and decided to follow him. Shisui only started down the lane when he knew for certain that his cousin was following him. He had seen him long before Kakashi did but didn't want to bother him; but now it seemed that Kakashi was interested in where he was going.

"Yo, Shisui where are you headed?" A curious Kakashi asked as he ran up alongside of his cousin.

Shisui looked over at Kakashi with a grin in place. "I'm heading down to visit Toshiro and Meyrin. Meyrin had her baby just two days ago and I promised them both that I would be coming down to see her."

"Ah so I take it that they had a girl then?"

"Yep, seven pounds and three ounces." Shisui replied as he looked back down the road. The grin still in place. "She is quite a little one. Dad was down there yesterday and he said that she is going to grow up to be a beautiful woman someday."

Kakashi smiled as he thought of a small infant in her mother's arms. Then he remembered something.

"Hey speaking of uncle will he be in the exhibition tomorrow?" Kakashi nodded his head in greeting as they passed a young couple on their way out of Renge.

"He was supposed to be in it, but at the last minute he had to back out because of the time." Shisui's grin slipped right off his face as he remembered the disappointment on his father's face that night he told Shisui the news.

"He has to take up a security detail at that time. So he asked me to take his place instead."

Kakashi also frowned as he instinctively reached up and adjusted his mask. At this moment there were many people walking down the lane that weren't from the district. None of them were making him feel any less self-conscious and nervous. Any one of them could start harassing him right now and making more trouble for the Uchiha clan. Kakashi couldn't help but feel responsible for what is happening. He was also disgusted because this was a time for the clan to be preparing to celebrate; but instead they had to divide up their time from being able to enjoy the festivities with friends and family to making sure everyone was safe. Kakashi felt so guilty.

Many other families were in the same position as Shisui and his father. Traditionally speaking the members of a family that had new members born into it were usually given no responsibilities the day of the festival. It was other members of the clan that took care of the tasks that came with running the festival smoothly. Families with new children were meant to just spend time enjoying the festivities and each other. Now however some of them would be on the security detail at different times of the festival. Probably one of his family members would have to join in as well. Kakashi made a mental note to remember to ask his father when he returned home.

"I'm sorry, Shisui, I never wanted this to happen. Father and Mother told Itachi and I what had happened that led to this situation everyone is in now." Kakashi said somberly.

Shisui looked back over at his cousin with a curious look. He reached up and placed a hand on Kakashi's shoulder as he spoke.

"Kakashi, why do you think you need to apologize for anything?" Shisui asked. Kakashi couldn't give his cousin an answer. He could only stare back at Shisui with an uncertain look. "This situation isn't your fault nor is it Naruto's." Shisui continued. "The people who are responsible for this mess are the ones that live outside our district. So don't blame yourself anymore over this. I won't stand for it. You hear me?" Shisui said adamantly.

Kakashi looked deeply into his cousin's eyes looking for any hint that he wasn't being honest about his feelings. Shisui stared right back with equal intensity. Feeling relief that his cousin wasn't trying to hide the truth from him, Kakashi suddenly eye smiled at his cousin.

"Okay Shisui you got it. No more playing the blame game."

"You better not Kakashi otherwise I just might have to kick your ass." He said with a teasing smirk.

"Ha-ha cousin as if you could. I would end up embarrassing you." Kakashi said playfully.

Shisui dramatically clutched at his chest and staggered around for a moment as if he was having a heart attack. This made Kakashi chuckle.

"Kakashi! You wound me!"

Shisui's eyes were wide for a moment as he continued to play his little charade. He waved his left arm about frantically as he still clutched at his heart with his right hand. He masterfully avoided the people that they passed as they continued to walk towards Toshiro's house.

Now Kakashi was laughing freely and people continued to pass on either side of the two looking at them with differing expressions. Some with amusement while others with confusion. A few with mildly hidden disgust. Shisui stopped his antics and let a smile appear on his face. He was glad to see his cousin laughing so carefree. He couldn't remember Kakashi ever laughing out loud in public before now and he had to admit it was truly nice to see.

Kakashi soon got himself together again after seeing a few disgusted glares and the two continued on to Toshiro's house. When they had arrived at the place. Kakashi was surprised at how small the house was from just looking at it from the front. 'No wonder they had to build on a new addition on to it.' He thought as they made their way up the front steps. Shisui went and knocked on the front door. They both could hear someone coming to the door and stood ready for it to open.

Toshiro opened to them and smiled warmly when he saw that it was Shisui and he was surprised to see there was a new person that was with him as well. He immediately stepped aside and bid them to come in.

"Come in Shisui and friend. May I ask your name?" Toshiro was looking up at Kakashi and offering his hand as he spoke. Kakashi immediately reached out with his own hand and grasped the others.

"Hello, I'm known as Kakashi. Kakashi Hatake Uchiha." Kakashi mentally winced as he heard himself. He sounded a bit nervous even if it didn't show.

Toshiro didn't show surprise or awkwardness at the tone. He had heard of Kakashi. Everyone knew of him but not many really knew him as a person in truth. Toshiro was glad to be finally meeting Kakashi. He sheepishly rubbed at his right arm as he realized that he should have met the new Uchiha much sooner but never had found the time.

"Hello, Kakashi and I do apologize for not having met you much sooner than this; but honestly I haven't been keeping up with much of anything lately. Meyrin was due two weeks ago but the baby had other ideas about when she would come into this world." He sighed and then continued.

"We had it rough for a while and I was trying to work and keep up with my wife and child. You don't know of how many false alarms we had over the past two weeks when we thought that Meyrin was going to have the baby. Then there was the whole business of the addition being added onto the house. I felt like I was trying to do too many things at once! So yeah, I'm sorry."

Kakashi eye smiled at the man and raised and shook both hands in an appeasement gesture.

"It's alright, Toshiro, I should have stopped by to meet you, but I too was having too many things hitting me at once." Placated Kakashi.

"Thanks." A relieved Toshiro answered. "So I take it that the two of you came to see our baby girl?" He said with a broad smile.

Shisui laughed as he spoke up for Kakashi and himself.

"Yes we have come to see her. My father told me that she is a cute little thing that is going to grow-up into a beautiful woman someday."

"Ah your father is right Shisui. Please come this way won't you?" Toshiro made to lead the way and Shisui and Kakashi fell in step behind him. Toshiro led them down a small hallway. The beginning of the hallway had a few small shelves with little figurines on them. A picture was spaced in between the first two shelves on either side of the hallway. Once they arrived half-way down it there were two rooms on either side. One door was open and showed the bathroom inside on the left was concealed behind a closed door. Toshiro briefly mentioned as they passed it that it was his and his wife's room. Meyrin was sleeping at the moment.

"Meyrin is still recovering from the birth. So she is sleeping right now." He explained.

Both of the young men that followed only softly grunted an agreement. They didn't want to wake her right now. Toshiro continued down the hallway. At the end of it was a door that was open and just looking at the door frame Kakashi could tell that this was where the new addition had been added on. They stepped quietly into the room and there in her bassinet covered in white lace covering was the baby. Toshiro saw that she was awake and alertly looking around. Her father smiled down at her as he gently lifted the bundle out of the bassinet. The baby blanket was securely wrapped around her. She moved her arms about in a jerky manner as she watched the three men staring at her with smiles.

"Shisui, Kakashi, I would like you to meet Asami it means morning beauty." Toshiro's grin was as bright as the sun as he held his little daughter closer. The two young shinobi leaned slightly forward as they looked at the newborn girl. She was looking up at them curiously and moving her little arms around still. Both boys could see that Shisui's father had been right. Asami had the pale ivory skin that most of the clan had. She had large eyes that were shining a deep blue at the this stage, but over time they were sure to turn color and become the deep obsidian orbs that they were destined to become. Her hair was a deep black color though it spiked in a small fringe around her face. It was short but the hair covered all of her head nicely.

"Wow, you're a real cutey aren't you Asami." A smiling Shisui asked.

Asami gave Shisui a small smile for his compliment. Shisui reached out with his index finger and Asami immediately reached for it. Her tiny fingers wrapped around his with a firm grip. Tiny gurgling noises were coming from the baby as she continued to smile up at this tall person.

"Would you like to hold her?" Toshiro asked as he watched the two interact.

Shisui was surprised that he would be asked and quickly nodded his head yes.

Toshiro moved closer and leaned forward as Shisui also reached out with his arms and leaned forward also.

"You need to support her head whenever you hold her." Toshiro explained as the baby was passed from one to the other. Shisui was grinning as if he was the proud father of the little girl. He looked over at his cousin and then at the father with a beaming smile. Asami for her part didn't fuss when she was passed to the stranger. She could still see that her father was there as Toshiro had moved over to the right so that she could see that he was still with her.

Kakashi stood back a little once Toshiro had offered for Shisui to hold the baby. The baby was adorable and Kakashi found himself in awe of her. It had been such a long time since he had been around a newborn. It brought back memories of Naruto and how scared Kakashi remembered being when he first held his little brother for the first time. He was so afraid of dropping Naruto right in front of their parents. Still he also remembered a sense of overwhelming desire to protect this new tiny and fragile life that he was given responsibility of. The moment was such a defining one for Kakashi. One he will never forget.

Shisui looked back over at Kakashi as he was about to ask him if he wanted to hold Asami; but when he looked at his cousin he saw that Kakashi was far away from them. Stepping forward a little towards his cousin Shisui spoke with worry.

"Hey, Kakashi are you okay?"

Kakashi blinked when he heard his name called and looked up from the infant to his cousin. The concerned looks on both men's faces made Kakashi wince internally. He hadn't meant to warp out into la-la land. 'Great now Asami's father is going to think I'm a creep or something.' He mentally scolded he spoke up.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to stare so hard. I was thinking of when Naruto was a newborn. I had never been around babies at all before that night. I remember how scared I was to hold him. He was so small and fragile and so dependent on me. My whole world changed that night; but I have no regrets about it." He said with an eye smile.

Shisui wanted to kick himself. He should have known that Kakashi would be forced to remember that night over four years ago. It was totally different than the moment they all were in right now and Shisui cussed himself out mentally. He didn't want to make Kakashi think of painful things. He was starting to regret having brought Kakashi here when Kakashi spoke up.

"Um, I think it's time for me to go now. I have to be home soon. I have promised Mother that I would help her with the rest of the preparations for the festivals meals tomorrow. Plus someone has to look out for the little ones. They tend to run under foot in the kitchen a lot." Another eye smile appeared as Kakashi made to leave.

"Thank you Toshiro for allowing me to see Asami. She is a beautiful baby and I wish you all the best of love and happiness." Kakashi said as he turned and moved towards the door.

"Wait Kakashi. I'm coming too." A guilty Shisui replied.

Kakashi did as his cousin had asked and stopped and looked back. The smile was gone and a somberness had taken over his expression. Shisui cussed himself out again mentally. Toshiro was given his child back gently. Toshiro wasn't upset about Kakashi's desire to leave. He remembered hearing of the incident of the night the nine tails had attacked. Toshiro remembered hearing that the Fourth Hokage and his wife had died but their newborn son had been given to someone else to raise. He later had learned that it was Kakashi. He realized how uncomfortable they probably had made Kakashi feel and so he spoke up to let Kakashi know that everything was alright.

"Kakashi I feel honored to have had you come and visit us. Please feel free to come again. I know that Meyrin would like to meet you as well and Asami would love to see you again if her smile and reaching for you is any indication." Toshiro answered with a smile.

Kakashi looked at the little girl and sure enough Asami was smiling and reaching out for him. Kakashi's eye smile returned again at the sight.

"Thank you Toshiro. I promise that I will be back soon."

"You better or I'm going to have a very upset baby on my hands." Toshiro joked.

"Well we better be off Kakashi. You have things to do and so do I." Interjected Shisui. "Thanks for letting us see her Toshiro she is adorable."

"Anytime."

The young men made their way out of the house and back on the less busy street. They began to make their way back down the lane again. Now that they were out of the house Shisui apologized to Kakashi.

"I'm sorry Kakashi. I didn't think at all about the fact that Asami would make you think of the past with Naruto and your sensei. I was stupid."

Kakashi didn't look at Shisui as they walked along the street. Some of the people that they passed were clansmen whom would nod at both young men in acknowledgement and Kakashi nodded in return. Shisui began to wonder as his cousin didn't say anything for several minutes that maybe he wouldn't forgive him for taking him there. Then at last Kakashi glanced over at Shisui just before he stopped walking altogether.

"Shisui, don't beat yourself over it. There was no harm done. You will have to understand that there are many things that trigger my memory of events that I don't like; but that particular memory even though sad isn't the worst memory I have. Something positive had come out of it in the end and as I said at Toshiro's house, I have no regrets." Kakashi gave his cousin a pat on the back and started moving for home again.

Shisui stood there for a moment taking in what was just said before he realized that his cousin had started moving again.

"Hey! Wait for me, Kakashi." Shisui quickly caught up to his taller cousin. "Hey thanks you know?" I just didn't want to be an ass about it."

"You're fine". Kakashi replied dismissively. "So what are you going to head off and do now?"

Oh, I have to train for the exhibition tomorrow. There's no way I'm going to embarrass my old man at such an important event."

"You better not. Or uncle will show us all something spectacular at the grounds this year." An amused Kakashi answered.

"Hey!" Shisui retorted as he playfully shoved his cousin who barely even moved. "Be nice." Shisui added as he laughed.

The cousins laughed as they came to the end of the lane. They parted company at that point. Shisui to his special and hidden training area and Kakashi back to his home. 'Home.' Kakashi thought. 'I'm so glad that I took the chance to join up with Father and his family. Naruto and I both are doing so much better. Naruto is thriving under their care despite the village. Father has been a pillar of strength when I needed it. I could never be thankful enough to them and what they have done for us.' A warm pleasant feeling rushed into his heart and he couldn't help but smile because of it.

He kept moving along the street. He ignored some of the more ignorant people that passed by him. They were glaring with disgust at him. Kakashi knew they wouldn't say or do anything within his family's district. So he let them go; but never let his guard down as he passed them. In the distance he thought he saw a spikey shock of yellow hair moving along. The smile on Kakashi's face widen. Even under the mask the expression couldn't be completely hidden.

Naruto was bouncing along holding onto his mother's hand as they went towards home. Sasuke was giving the evil eye to anyone stupid enough to glare at his brother or mother. He hadn't lied when he had told his family yesterday that he didn't like the villagers and here was some prove right before his eyes. Some ignorant losers were trying to make them feel bad for walking in their own district. He got out in front of his family and dared with his eyes for them to say or do something. Sasuke had been warned by both his father and brothers Kakashi and Itachi to not show off the Sharigan at the villagers. The Sharigan is not to be carelessly shown. It is meant to be seen when you meet with danger or an emergency. Sasuke had paid attention to what they said; but that still didn't make him feel any less like they weren't being bullied right now and Sasuke didn't do bullying.

Mikoto watched her son move in front of her and Naruto. She had been seeing the looks as well but didn't say anything about it. She knew that Naruto also had seen them. The little boy was trying to act as if nothing was wrong, but she could feel his hand grip hers tighter and then lessen every time he saw another one.

"Sasuke, honey don't get too far ahead of us okay?" Mikoto instructed.

"I won't mother. I can't protect you both if I get to far ahead." Sasuke explained.

"Momma, everything will be okay. I trust Sasuke and besides I'm here too and I will help him." Naruto assured her.

Mikoto smiled at her youngest. "Yes, honey I know you will." 'I just hope that it doesn't come to that.' She thought. Mikoto knew that if anything did happen she would jump into the fray first. There was no way that she would allow her young sons to deal with these people.

They continued down the street. They only had five more blocks in which they would reach their house and safety. The bags they were carrying were getting heavier and Mikoto couldn't wait to be relieved of them. They had bought more rice at the convenience store. They also went to Shin's farm and bought more eggs. Along the way they wanted a dessert to go with their lunch and so stopped at the bakery for a strawberry cake. Naruto was carrying a gallon of milk in one hand while the other was firmly wrapped in his mother's. Sasuke had brought his backpack so that his arms would be free just in case he needed to fight. The backpack was stuffed with vegetables and other things needed to finish all the food that was being made today. They continued to walk along. Only three more blocks to go when they heard someone clear his voice from behind them. All three nearly leaped out of their skins at the sound.

Kakashi was steadily making progress at reaching his family before they made it to the final block towards home. He could tell as he got closer that they were all tense. This made him frown. He looked around him swiftly instead of using subtlety as he had been doing until now. He feared that he had missed something that the others were seeing or sensing but nothing was any different than before. He moved quicker now and from force of habit he did so silently.

Kakashi decided to clear his throat softly to get their attention. They were so focused on what was currently in front of them that they never realized he was there until he made that soft barely audible sound. He immediately regretted it as they all nearly leaped straight in the air like a frightened cat.

"I'm sorry it's only me." He spoke apologetically.

Mikoto turned swiftly fear and determination written all over her face. Seeing Kakashi behind her made Mikoto exhale a breath she didn't know that she was holding.

"I'm sorry Kakashi. I was so caught up in what was in front of us that I completely missed sensing you. What a terrible mother I am."

Mikoto was embarrassed and upset with herself. She knew that she shouldn't have let the villagers get her so tense. If she had been calm she would have known that her oldest was coming up behind her. Kakashi wasn't' about to let his mother feel the way she did.

"Nonsense mother I don't blame you for feeling a bit tense; but everything is alright now. We only have another block to go before we all are home again."

Sasuke and Naruto forgot all about the villagers glares and went over for a hug from their big brother.

"Kashi! I'm so glad to see you." Naruto exclaimed as he put the jug of milk down and hugged his brother.

Kakashi picked up Naruto and hugged him close.

"Hey, little bro have you been good for mother?" Kakashi asked.

"Yep, Sasuke and I have been helping momma and keeping her company!" Naruto could barely contain his excitement.

Kakashi couldn't help but smile. The festival was something new for the both of them and Naruto was taking everything in and so willing to try new things and help. It made Kakashi's heart leap with happiness for his little brother. In the past they shunned any kind of festival that was offered to the citizens of the leaf. This was different however because this was their family's festival and that made everything alright.

"Good job you two." Kakashi said as he looked from Naruto to Sasuke.

Sasuke beamed with pride happy that his big brother approved of what he and Naruto were doing. He stood beside Kakashi patiently waiting for his turn for a hug. He maybe nearly five years old; but Sasuke still loved getting hugs from his family. Kakashi placed Naruto down and gave him a swift brush of his crown with his hand before he reached for Sasuke.

"Yo little man are you keeping your brother and mother safe?"

"Yep I haven't let anyone get near us. Some of the villagers started looking ugly at us, so I just gave them the evil eye." A confident Sasuke said.

"Yeah? Let me see this evil eye you mentioned."

Sasuke looked his big brother in the single exposed obsidian eye with intent and purpose. His eyebrows furrowed downward making his shiny dark orbs glint with intent. It certainly would have been intimidating if Sasuke was much older and taller. Still Kakashi had to admit he was impressed.

"Whoa little man that glare is certainly a nasty one. No wonder people have been moving away from you all the way down the street." Replied a mildly surprised Kakashi.

"Thank you, Kakashi. I'm trying really hard to do as you and big brother Itachi have told me." Sasuke smiled.

Kakashi hugged him tight and then let him down again. Once he straightened back up to his full height Kakashi looked over at his mother. She was smiling at all of her sons but she kept glancing around her every time she felt eyes on her. Kakashi took this as their cue to be moving on home.

"Come on everyone let's get on home. We still have a bunch of things to do to get ready for the festival and ceremony tomorrow." He said.

They all moved off together towards home. The block was traversed easily with Naruto chatting happily along telling everyone of what he wanted to try at the carnival and even try some of the foods he had never heard of before. Everyone listened and added their parts to the conversation and before long they were at the front door of their home. Kakashi grabbed the door and opened it. He pushed it open and allowed the rest of his family to go on inside the house.

Itachi had been bored for a while now. He couldn't wait for the rest of his family to come back home. He had heard Kakashi and Gai coming back into the house and heading towards the front. So Itachi knew that his brother was walking Gai out of the house; probably walking with the green clad warrior all the way to the gates. Sure enough Kakashi didn't come straight back in. Father was still over in his study. Itachi knew there was a lot on the man's mind these days and Itachi found that he didn't envy his father one bit. He found his thoughts drifting again as he looked out his bedroom window at a songbird in a tree.

'I wonder what we will do first once mother and our little brothers come back from shopping. There is still a lot of cooking to be done. I think we're going to make a large batch of gyoza (Pan-fried dumplings) I know that we are going to make Yaki Udon but that can't be made until tomorrow. (Stir fried Japanesewhite noodles with chicken and vegetables) Itachi shifted in his chair throwing his left leg lazily over the arm rest as he leaned towards his right. The shift in positon shifting his chain of thoughts with it.

'I can hardly wait for tomorrow to come. I know that things will get hard for us afterwards, but I don't want to think of that right now. No. I won't think of this until after the festival is over. Those villagers won't ruin this family festival. The Uchiha won't be bullied like this, my family won't be bullied like this and if they even think of coming here tomorrow. I won't allow them anywhere near my brothers.'

Itachi drifted out of his thoughts long enough to check the clock on his desk. He frowned. 'I wonder what is taking Kakashi so long. He didn't go somewhere else after seeing Gai off would he?' Hm as the time is showing that he has been gone now for over forty-five minutes he must have.' I wonder where he went. Come to think of it I wonder how much longer mother and our little brothers are going to be.'

Itachi was brought the answer by way of the front door opening and hearing the laughter and shouts of 'We're home' shouted through the house. Itachi made to get up quickly and headed for the living room glad that they were finally there.

"Welcome back." Itachi replied upon entering the living room entrance. "I was starting to wonder if maybe I should go out and look for all of you."

"Nah, you didn't need to do that Itachi. We were a little slow because we were busy being admired by all our adoring fans." Sasuke replied sarcastically.

Kakashi and Itachi both snorted at that. Itachi stepped forward to help Sasuke get his back pack off. Mikoto smiled at her boys and headed for the kitchen. On her way there she glanced back over her shoulder.

"Boys please bring the food into the kitchen as soon as you can. I need to get lunch started right away". Then remembering what she needed further from the boys Mikoto added. "Oh, and boys are all of you still going to help me today with the rest of the preparations for tomorrow? The Yaki udon can't be made until tomorrow; but I will still need to get the vegetables for it prepped as well as the desserts finished tonight."

"Of course mother we will help you." Answered Itachi.

Mikoto showed a relieved expression and thanked the boys. She then continued on into the busiest room in the house. Naruto went and hugged Itachi after he had helped Sasuke out of the back pack.

"Good afternoon Itachi. I missed you." Naruto chirped as he hugged Itachi around the waist.

Itachi smiled and patted Naruto's head. "I missed you too Naruto. Are we going to team up again tonight?"

"Yes!" Naruto shouted happily.

Itachi chuckled and then reached to pick up the gallon of milk that the little boy had brought home. The bottom of the jug was dirty and Itachi gave a raised eyebrow at his little brother who only gave him a sheepish smile in return.

Sasuke and Kakashi were already heading into the kitchen with the back pack full of vegetables and other items needed for meals or desserts. Itachi and Naruto soon followed them.

They placed everything were it needed to be and decided that it was time to leave mother to work on lunch while they went to see what their father was up too. They all left the kitchen and headed down the corridor to the man's study. Itachi led the way as they all walked single file with Sasuke next and then Naruto and finally Kakashi bringing up the rear.

Fugaku sensed his family's return and soon heard them as they shouted greetings throughout the house. He smiled to himself at that. He was in the middle of reviewing a financial report for his department. The report was boring him to near tears and so the children coming home was going to be a nice distraction for a few minutes anyway. He knew that he couldn't brush off his responsibilities to his department; but he knew it wouldn't hurt to take a break from the task either. He soon heard Itachi come and knock at the opened door. He turned in his chair to see all of his boys crowding each other as they stared into his room and at him. Fugaku realized that the boys rarely ever saw the door to his study open. Itachi and Sasuke were reacquainting themselves with its interior while Kakashi and Naruto were viewing it for the very first time. Gesturing for all of them to come in Fugaku smiled warmly at them.

"Please come in boys. I'm in the middle of a boring report and I could use a break from it right now."

The Uchiha brothers filed in and the little ones ran to their father immediately for a hug. They weren't disappointed as their father reached for each of them and lifting them up placed them on his lap. Kakashi and Itachi found the nearest seats and sat down. Fugaku slid his chair back a little from his desk to allow leg room for the two little ones and turned it back to the front being careful not to get the little ones legs pinned by the desk as he did so. Once he was facing his desk again he took note of his two eldest sons whom were sitting in the comfortable chairs in front of the desk.

"So what do I owe the pleasure of having all of my sons come and visit me in my study?" Inquired Fugaku.

"We wanted to see you father that's all." Shrugged Sasuke.

"Yeah we missed you father." Chirped Naruto.

Fugaku smirked and hugged the boys closer. He then looked over at his oldest with a questioning look.

"Kakashi has everything gone well between you and Gai?"

Kakashi sat a little straighter in his chair as he spoke up.

"Yes father. Gai and I have worked things out much better than either of us had expected too. He will be coming over on Wednesday at Noon for the little get together we are having."

"I see. Good. I don't mind you boys having a party here just don't trash the house in the process. Your mother and I don't want to come home tired from work to hear and see that things got out of hand here."

"Yes father I will take full responsibility for the party. So trust me there won't be any craziness that leads to a mess and broken stuff." Replied Kakashi in seriousness.

Itachi glanced over at his big brother the moment he said craziness wouldn't lead to a mess. He smirked at that. He knew that Kakashi was going to need help if that was his goal. Kakashi also glanced over at his brother when he felt Itachi's eyes on him and seeing the smirk that didn't leave Itachi's face even then. He couldn't help but want to smirk himself; but he knew better. Father wasn't messing around with them on this point and Kakashi knew it. A careless smirk or even a laugh escape him now and his father would misunderstand and decide against the party. He couldn't do that to their friends. So he stifled the urge to do either and kept a serious expression.

Fugaku didn't miss the smirk that was so boldly presented on Itachi's face. He wanted to say something but decided against it. He knew that Itachi found his brother's promise a bit amusing considering the friends that they had; but Fugaku wasn't going to discriminate against the boy's friends. None of the young people that would be coming over where bad people even if- and he hated to admit this- where a bit out there at times. Which is why he knew very well why Itachi was sporting the expression he was. Kakashi would have his hands full that day; but Fugaku trusted Kakashi. He needed to trust him so that Kakashi would know without a doubt that his father approved of him taking responsibility for all of them. He also knew that Itachi would help his brother. Even if right now he found his brother amusing.

Naruto and Sasuke watched the exchange of words and looks and didn't think it was funny or worrisome. These were there big brother's friends and that meant their friends as well. They liked all of them and even though they knew that some of them could get a little crazy. They also knew that their friends wouldn't do anything that would get their big brothers in trouble. Naruto decided that it was time to get the heat off of Kakashi.

"Father I have a question please?"

Fugaku turned his attention back to his youngest with a small smile. The serious expression gone in an instant.

"Yes son what is it that you want to know?"

Naruto looked over at Sasuke who encouraged to go ahead and ask.

"I remember some of what is going to happen tomorrow; but I still don't know what else will happen. Will Kashi and I have to do stuff?"

"What do you mean by stuff, Naruto?" interjected Sasuke curiously.

Naruto fidgeted for a moment before he looked back up at them a little embarrassed.

"Well we won't have to do any fighting or stuff like that to show that we are worthy will we? You know that kind of stuff." Naruto clarified.

Fugaku chuckled softly and hugged Naruto close again.

"No Naruto neither you nor Kakashi will have to do anything like that. Though next year's festival I expect all of my sons to participate in the exhibition."

"How come?" Naruto's curiosity got the better of him.

"This year we have been blessed with both of you." Fugaku stated. "All the families that have new members do not have to take part in the exhibition or do any of the work of setting up booths or other things that need to be done for the festival. The families are to sit back and enjoy the festivities with everyone."

'Well that more or less answers my question about Shisui and uncle.' Thought Kakashi.

"So we will get up tomorrow and get ready and then go to the shrine first?" Naruto asked.

"Yes. We will leave at eight and head for the shrine. This part which is called the ceremony isn't part of the festival. This is the serious part of things Naruto. The fun comes later but don't worry there is no reason to be scared or uncomfortable. We will present you to one of the elders who will mark your forehead with the ash from the special trees of our district." Fugaku looked over at Kakashi as he made his next point. "Following that Kakashi, you will have a vow to perform." Fugaku informed him as he watched both Naruto and Kakashi's expressions to see if they understood or were feeling nervous.

Neither Kakashi nor Naruto had ever been subjected to anything good in public before. Their father was well aware that both boys became tense whenever a crowd was gathered around them or if they had to walk through one. In the latter case the two usually headed for the rooftops to avoid them. So Fugaku wanted them to understand that though they would be in a crowd of others it would be okay.

Itachi could see Naruto's face better than Fugaku could and he could see that the little boy wanted to ask about the vows. So he interjected.

"Naruto you don't understand about the vows is that it?" He asked.

"Yes." Naruto answered. "Itachi why does Kashi have to say vows for? I know that we are not babies; but babies can't talk .So they wouldn't be saying any vows right now. So why does he?" Naruto's head tilted to the side in confusion and Itachi couldn't help but smile. The little guy was adorable whenever he did that.

"Well this is because Kakashi is old enough to take the Vow of Loyalty". Itachi answered as he scratched his forearm. "All clan kids have to take the vow sometime before they start at the Academy. This vow means that you as a clan member will stand and defend the clan and remain loyal to the clan. You will also fight for this village in this clan's honor as we are one of the founding clans of Konoha." Itachi stopped and looked at Sasuke before continuing to speak

"You remember when I was telling Sasuke that he was honor bound to defend the Leaf right?

"Yes I remember." Answered Naruto as he looked over at Sasuke. Sasuke wasn't looking too impressed with the whole live to defend Konoha thing but he wouldn't argue it either as before.

"Well that is what I was telling him. We are honor and duty bound to protect this village as well as our clan. To do anything less is dishonorable by our clan and breaks the vow that you have made with this clan." He stated simply.

Naruto looked over at Sasuke with an apologetic look. He knew why Sasuke was silent this time. Naruto felt the same way as his brother. Now he wished he hadn't even asked.

"Oh." He said weakly to Itachi's speech.

Sasuke wasn't mad at Naruto or anyone in the room and he certainly wasn't going to argue either. He knew that what Itachi was saying was the truth whether he liked it or not. He also remembered what Kakashi had told him and his big brother had also been right. Their little world was nestled inside of another much bigger one and if Sasuke wanted to protect his home. He would have to protect Konoha as well; but knowing how the villagers thought of his clan as a whole made Sasuke feel that it was impossible for him to accept right now. He wondered if he would ever be able to take the vows when the time came. If it was right now Sasuke would probably decline to do it at all.

Fugaku sensed the slight tension in his next youngest son. So he gently rubbed his hand on the boy's shoulder.

"Sasuke it is okay for now son. Don't concern yourself with these things yet. There will be time later to reflect and decide whether or not you want to or if you're even ready to take the vows when the time comes. Our clan isn't going to ostracize you over it now or later; but understand that when the time does come and you decide not to take them. You will not be accepted as a ninja within our clan."

Kakashi's eye went wide as he heard this bit of information. Fugaku looked over again at his oldest and expected to see the shocked expression that was currently there. He had been planning on talking to his eldest son a little later that afternoon. When most of the preparations for the festival had been done. Fugaku didn't think there would be a problem with Kakashi accepting the vows since he was already fighting and defending their home already. Perhaps it was presumptuous of him to think that Kakashi would just take the vows without question.' Stupid Fugaku. Stupid.' He berated himself mentally. He realized that Kakashi was waiting for him to explain. He cleared his throat. He would give Kakashi the talk now.

"Yes, Kakashi. You will still be seen as a ninja to the leaf but not among your clan. We take the protection of this village seriously. You heard the history of our clan from Katsumi right?" He asked with serious tone and expression.

Kakashi didn't say anything only nodded his head in confirmation.

"Our ancestors had been warring with the Senju for so many decades. There had been so much death brought to both clans and our ancestors grew weary of the tears and pain that came with each death of a loved one. It was the biggest reason that they agreed with the leader of the Senju clan for peace." He answered.

"Back then the clan made that peace with the Senju and along with them created Konoha. They wanted only to live their lives in peace and freedom. So the vows were created for each new generation of Uchiha shinobi to take so that they would remember what is important to us. When the vows are given and spoken it is so that we never forget nor disrespect the sacrifices and determination of our ancestors to keep Konoha our home as well as for all who live here."

Kakashi closed his eye as he absorbed what he had just learned. 'I can't fault the clan for what they agreed too if they hadn't Konoha wouldn't exist and none of the clans that live here now would be here. They would still be struggling along with the rest of the shinobi world. What the Uchiha did is no small thing and I can understand why they did what they did. It wasn't done just for themselves. It was done for all ninja everywhere.' He mused.

"I understand father why the clan did what they did back then. I'm honored to be a part of this clan and I assure you that I will go through with the vows tomorrow."

Kakashi had spoken with all of the honesty and seriousness he could muster. He even opened his Sharigan eye along with the other for emphasis to what he said. His father gave him a small smile in reward for his answer. Fugaku was pleased with his eldest son. He could only hope that his two youngest will be able to forgive the village one day and take the vows and in Naruto's case if he even became a ninja at all. Fugaku would not push Naruto to become a ninja, but if he did then he hoped that the boy could get beyond the past and move forward into the future just like his ancestors had done so long ago.

Wanting to change the subject and get back on track with where the conversation had been originally headed Sasuke asked that they continue with the festival. His father didn't show any sign of being upset or shocked or even angry at his young son. He simply continued to speak of the ceremony and festival.

"You are right Sasuke there is still more to tell." Fugaku stated. "After one of the elders places the Uchiha symbol on your foreheads; He or she will then present the Uchiha necklace and place it around your neck. The elder will then give there blessing for all new members that are accounted for at the shrine. Afterwards we all get to return home for a big breakfast."

"What about those who can't come and why can't they?" An inquisitive Naruto asked.

"Those who can't come aren't able to because their mothers had just given birth to them only a few days or even a few weeks ago." Interjected Itachi. "She isn't well enough at this point to go to the shrine and stand there for however long it takes before her child is sworn in as a new member of the clan. So when the elders are done with everyone at the shrine. They head out to all the homes where new babies have been born and the parents and child take part in the ceremony that way. This ensures that no one is left out. In some years though there aren't as many children born to the clan; but this year is a bumper crop sort of speak. You two are lucky enough to be involved in one of our biggest years for babies. Concluded Itachi with a chuckle.

"It's important for both of the parents to be with their child when the child is in the ceremony. So it had been decided long ago that this method would include everyone with a new child. We celebrate all new children born into the clan." Fugaku said with a small smile.

"It's kind of weird to be taking part when Kashi and I aren't newborns." Replied Naruto thoughtfully.

"Yes but you are babies in our family Naruto. Come to think of it I should be big brother to both of you!" Retorted Sasuke playfully.

"Oh, Sasuke you're only big brother to me and sometimes I wonder which of is really the younger." Naruto fired right back with laugh.

Kakashi was listening closely while still in thought. There was more to be told and he wanted to know what was next.

"So we go to the shrine and are marked and given our necklace and I have vows to recite and then we all come home for breakfast. So what's after that father?"

"The rest of the morning is spent with other members of our family and friends here. This is when you will begin to receive gifts from them. The gifts can be anything from a very expensive weapon to a box of homemade cookies and everything in between."

"Yeah you will even get gifts from people that your parents have helped out at some point." Explained Sasuke.

"Yes and since the two of you have been out in the district many people have had the pleasure of meeting you so you will receive gifts from them as well. The whole idea of the gifts are to say thank you for being born and in the case of the two of you. Thank you for becoming a part of our big family." Fugaku answered.

"I see so that is the ceremony then?"

"Yes that's it. It's the second part that has all the excitement. At two O'clock that afternoon begins the festival and it starts with the exhibition. We all gather at the exhibition grounds and watch some of our clan put on some of their best skills on display for all of us to see." Exclaimed Fugaku with pride.

"The participants are of all ages and skill levels. They are chosen by the elders who have been keeping track of progression of skills in the younger participants and by successful missions completed by the older shinobi."

Kakashi remembered Shisui telling him that he was participating and asked about it.

"Father, Shisui said that uncle was chosen to be in the exhibition but then he had to back out due to being on one of the security teams that will be on watch during that time."

"Ah, yes Takeshi came and asked if Shisui could take his place and the elders allowed it. I'm glad because Shisui is up and coming among our clan. He is in Anbu like you two of course. So his skill level is high enough to replace his father at the exhibition."

"I can't wait until next year. I want to show everyone what I can do." Sasuke replied excitedly.

Itachi looked over at Sasuke with a sly look.

"Yeah and what are you going to show them Sasuke? Are you going to show them how many tomatoes you can stuff into your mouth in one go hm? That should prove to be hilarious and disgusting at the same time."

Sasuke had a surprised look and then anger was the next thing showing as he tried to get off his father's lap and ring Itachi's neck.

"Itachi you're one to talk you dango lover. Why don't you show everyone how many of those balls on a stick you can get stuck in your throat? I'll even help shove them in for you!" Sasuke hollered as his arms and legs flailed about.

Itachi just sat and laughed at his brother's antics. Their father gave Itachi a stern look as he continued to hold onto the feisty little raven in his lap.

"Itachi enough please and Sasuke stop this thrashing this instant. You are going to hit Naruto with your arm if you keep this up." He demanded.

Itachi stopped laughing at his brother. He couldn't help it if Sasuke gave him an opening he was going to take it more often than not; but seeing his father being displeased at the moment made him settle down. Sasuke was frustrated but obeyed his father and ceased his failing attempts at getting at his annoying brother. He settled back in his father's arms with a sigh. He looked over at Naruto and gave him an apologetic look.

Kakashi couldn't help but give his little brother some relief in the form of slapping Itachi on top of his head. Itachi immediately grabbed for his head but it was too late. Kakashi was faster and Itachi was now sitting with some of his hair tousled up into a slight bird's nest from the slap. Sasuke sat back and laughed at his brother's new hair-do.

"Now then as I was saying." Continued Fugaku with a sigh. "There is the exhibition first and when that is over we head to the main street of the district. There spread out the length of the street are tables filled with food. So if you were wondering where we were going to go with all this food your mother and you have been making now you know. We all sit down together and eat as one huge family in the center of the district."

"Yep and those that can't come have their meals brought to them first. In fact they are given enough food to last them all week. It helps them out a lot." Interjected Itachi as he tried to tame the nest that was compliments of his elder brother.

"Wow that sounds amazing!" Exclaimed Naruto.

"Yeah and after we eat, Naruto, there is a carnival set- up right next door to the exhibition grounds. They have rides and games and Ice cream and everything!" An equally Sasuke chimed in.

"Yes that starts as soon as we are done eating obviously and the night ends with fireworks back at the exhibition grounds." Concluded their father.

"Lunch is ready!" Yelled Mikoto from the hallway.

All of the Uchiha males shouted back at the same time.

"Coming!"

Everyone got out of the study and headed down the hallway and into the kitchen where their mother had the meal all set out and ready to be consumed with gusto. Kakashi led the way to the table and everyone went to their seats. The meal was spent leisurely with laughter and some banter and an occasional bump to the head for being ministered by the brother that thought something wasn't appropriate.

Once the meal had been eaten and the kitchen cleaned. The family got ready to finish the foods for the festival. Soon the table was set up again with the ingredients to make the finishing appetizers and side dishes as well as the last of the desserts. The whole affair was a good time for all as the whole family got busy to finish everything. Everything that was finished was placed in the second refrigerator that the Uchiha owned in their basement.

They went well through the afternoon with their work and finished just before it was time to make supper. Fugaku looked at his wife and smiled. She had been the boss for the day as she led the family through what needed to be done. He watched as she happily guided the boys through each new task showing them how to do each important thing in making the food. She was kind and never forceful and had the complete respect of all their sons. He followed her about and helped with everything that she asked of him. When everything had been completed he noticed that she was a little tired. Fugaku decided then and there that he did not want his wife to be worn out and unable to enjoy the ceremony and festival. So feeling inspired he decided to make an announcement.

"Everyone may I have your attention please?" He asked in seriousness.

Everyone had been sitting on the back porch with lemonade in hand. They all turned to look at Fugaku wondering what was up.

"It has been a long and good day today. We were able to finish what needed to be done for our part at the festival and I'm sure that everyone will enjoy our hard work." He smiled as he continued.

"Mikoto, you have certainly out done yourself today hon and I want to reward your efforts by making supper tonight."

Mikoto didn't know if she should laugh or cry. She tried to smile but it was a bit strained. Itachi who had been taking a sip of his drink spit it involuntarily all over the table and himself just missing hitting Naruto sitting across from him. He was mortified of his behavior, but Naruto could only sit and blink rapidly a few times in response.

Sasuke had the look of horror on his face that he didn't even try to hide. Kakashi looked around and knew right away that he had better say something and fast if the reactions of his family were anything to go by. He didn't want to die before the ceremony tomorrow.

"Father that is very honorable of you." Kakashi began and his father beamed at the praise. "However I think it would be best if I did the cooking tonight." He said gently.

Everyone was relieved at this suggestion; but Fugaku wouldn't be deterred.

"Nonsense Kakashi I have watched all of you work so hard for two days for this festival and I want to show my appreciation to all of you."

"Well if you want to show that you appreciate us father this is certainly not the way to go about it." Mumbled Sasuke to himself.

The retort was barely audible but Kakashi heard it. Fortunately for Sasuke he was the only one who had and he was quick to jab his little brother lightly in the ribs. Sasuke rubbed his right side immediately while looking at his brother with a small smirk on his face. In spite of himself Kakashi found himself smirking back as their mother was now trying to rise to the defense of her children.

"Fu, honey I do appreciate the offer but I'm not tired at all and I love to cook for my family."

"Hon it's quite alright. I want to do this for you and our family."

The couple continued to debate about the cooking. The boys watched with growing apprehension as they could see that Mikoto was about to lose the fight. Desperate Itachi quickly wrote a note from a pad and pen left out on the table earlier that day. He got up and ran into the yard. Once there he nipped his finger and did the hand signs for summoning his crows. He summoned for one of the sleek black birds. It arrived in a puff of smoke and hovered in the air with strong wing beats. Itachi extended his right arm to the crow who landed gently and waited. He rolled and attached the note to the bird's leg and gave the command.

"Go to Shinji's and hurry!" Itachi practically threw the bird into the air. There was an indignant squawk as the bird took off for the pizza shop. Itachi sighed in relief. He had just saved his family's lives now all he had to do was save himself from his father after making the daring rescue.

Meanwhile the Uchiha couple continued on completely unaware of what their second eldest son had done. Kakashi along with the little ones had watched when Itachi ran for it thinking that he was busy with escaping the outcome and thought maybe they should do the same. Until they saw Itachi stop short of the middle of the yard and began making hand signs. Now the boys' curiosity was peaked. They couldn't even be bothered with the outcome of the debate between their parents anymore. They knew that Itachi had come up with something and they wanted to see what it was. Once they had seen the crow they knew that Itachi wanted to summon help from somewhere and waited for his return to the porch so that they could inquire of him about it.

Itachi ran back to the porch fearing that his parents would have seen that he had left momentarily. He didn't know why he cared at this point when he had just made a scene by running from the porch; but now wasn't the time to really care about such things. No saving his ass was now.

"Itachi where did you sent the crow?" Naruto asked just above a whisper when Itachi had returned.

"I sent the crow to Shinji's." A bewildered Itachi answered.

Kakashi chuckled at that. He couldn't help it. This whole thing was turning out to be funny. He gathered himself together.

"So what are you going to tell father? I thank you for sparing our lives Itachi but what now?"

"I have no I-." Itachi cut himself off as at that moment the idea came. He stood up from his seat and addressed their parents who were still talking. His brothers looked on in curiosity.

"Father, mother there is no need to discuss the issue any further." Itachi calmly replied. Both of their parents stopped talking and turned and looked at Itachi with curious looks.

"I have decided that it would be best to have pizza delivered tonight." He said confidently.

Mikoto had the look of relief on her face while Fugaku was starting to show a shocked expression. Itachi quickly verbalized his reason before that shock look turned into an angry one.

"The way that I see it is that we all have been working hard for the past two days even you father. We all deserve a break tonight. So why not let someone else take care of the cooking for us?" Itachi raised both hands palms upward towards the ceiling as he shrugged his shoulders.

Everyone was silent and looking at Fugaku. Kakashi had his fingers crossed under the table and Itachi couldn't help but think this was it. They all waited and Fugaku stood with his head down for a few moments saying nothing. When it looked like he wasn't going to say anything. Mikoto started to speak.

"Honey everything is okay the-". Suddenly the sound of Fugaku's laughter cut her off as well as surprised their sons.

Fugaku couldn't help but laugh and laugh he did". He had to wipe away a tear from his eye because of the amount of laughing he did. When he could finally pull himself together He smiled at all of them.

"Is my cooking really that horrible?" He chuckled. "Itachi, you ran out into the yard like a bat out of hell. I thought you were never going to stop running." Fugaku looked over his second eldest and started to laugh again when he saw the shocked look still frozen on Itachi's face.

"Father, have you been paying attention to us the whole time?" Inquired a knowing Kakashi.

"It was so worth it. You guys were priceless!" Exclaimed their father with mirth.

Mikoto thought about getting angry at her husband for pulling this prank on all of them; but she couldn't help but laugh herself. She had to admit it her husband had them played well. The boys also thought it was funny, but Sasuke was still a bit shocked. Their father never played pranks on anyone. He always said that was for juveniles.

"Father, you mean that you were pulling a prank this whole time? Well go ahead father!" Sasuke shouted with glee.

Everyone laughed at this statement.

"This was a once only time boys. I just wanted to see all of you laugh because we all know that I can't cook without your mother to guide me every step of the way. I never thought though you guys would react the way you did. You gave me a real good show."

"Well you did have us all going Fu, I have to admit it that was good." Replied Mikoto.

"Yeah father that was cool!" Chirped Naruto.

The family continued to laugh and talk until they sensed someone coming towards the house. Kakashi was able to smell the pizza first and went for the front door. Everyone piled into the house behind him and headed for the kitchen. Fugaku went to the door as Kakashi was handed the boxes of pizza. He paid the man as his eldest walked back into the kitchen with their meal.

The family sat and ate the pizza and talked and laughed some more. They were content and happy to all be together. The little ones got down from the table and played with a few toys brought into the living room. They wanted to be close to the rest of their family. Soon after it was time for everyone to settle down for the night. The little ones went to get their bathes and get ready for bed. Everyone would turn in early tonight. Tomorrow was promising to be an exciting day and they would need to be well rested to enjoy it.

Sunday morning was just beginning to make its arrival as several elders made their way to the ceremony ground where the two large branches of the Uchiha ceremonial tree was burned. The branches had been burned all night until they turned into a pile of ash. The ash was allowed to cool first and then was scooped up into three small sized bowls. The ash would be taken to the shrine for the day's ceremony of renew.

Togu and Katsumi were already at the shrine lighting the candles that were scattered everywhere within the shrine. The table and the banners and other decorative items had already been set up the day before and only small minor things were left to be done to be begin the ceremony in only a few hours.

Togu had finished lighting the candles that ran along the wall more than half way to the ceiling on the right side of the shrine. Katsumi was busy lighting the candles that where placed in a single row at the entrance to the left side. She had already lit the ones on the right. Togu came walking up to her with a question.

"Katsumi, shall I light the candles in the room of vows?"

"No. Seeing as there will only be one young man saying the vows today. It would be better for him to just say them out here were we are all witnesses." Katsumi divulged thoughtfully and then added.

"This will be good for Kakashi. He has trouble with crowds and being in the lime light. He tends to keep his thoughts and himself hidden from others. This will encourage him not to be afraid to speak before his clan."

"Ah, I see. Then I will continue to light the candles on the left side of the shrine. You are going to take the lighting of the candles on the altar then?"

"Yes. When we are finished Togu would you help me with setting up all of the necklaces on the table afterwards? There are quite a few this year."

"Of course I will." Togu concurred and then added with a smirk.

"Our clan has been busy this past year haven't they?"

Katsumi chuckled at this and agreed with her colleague.

"Yes Togu that they have and it is a good thing too." She said with a warm smile.

The two continued to work on getting the shrine ready as the other elders began making their appearances. Three of the elders were caring the ash of the ceremonial tree in the bowls and placed them on the table. Then they proceeded to take on other tasks that needed done this morning. One of which was the task of meeting with the first security team that was due to arrive within an half an hour.

Fugaku was the first one up at the manor. He was quiet and quick to take his shower. Once he was dried and dressed he immediately went to wake his wife. Mikoto woke and smiled at her husband who kissed her forehead as a greeting.

"Good morning love." She whispered. The grogginess of sleep being wiped away by her hand from her eyes.

"Good morning dear." Fugaku returned. "I will go and wake Kakashi and Itachi. The younger ones can sleep for another half hour I think." Replied Fugaku softly.

"I agree with you honey. I'll help the little ones to get ready when they wake."

"Good." Fugaku kissed his wife again this time on the lips and made his way out of their room.

Itachi's room was the next one after the master bedroom. So Fugaku stopped there first. He opened the door to find his son dead to the world. When he was out on a mission Itachi was sharp or when there was trouble in the house but when things were fine at home. Itachi would relax completely knowing that he was safe. Right now he was spread eagle on the bed. One of his pillows had landed on the floor along with his blanket. He was snoring softly. The boy's hair was a disheveled mess partially covering his face. Fugaku looked at him for a moment and chuckled. The boy was dignified and full of decorum when awake. It was so hard to believe that this was how he looked when he slept.

Fugaku made his way over to the boy and leaned forward and reaching out with his right hand gently nudged his son on the shoulder. Itachi merely made a disgruntled face and rolled over onto his left side away from his father. Fugaku wasn't deterred and shook his son a little harder. Itachi mumbled something unintelligible but continued to sleep. Fugaku tried again this time saying the boy's name as he shook him. Still no response from the young man. After three more tries of this and getting nowhere with Itachi. Fugaku stood up straight and sighed.

"Okay son if this is how it has to be so be it." He said in a loud voice.

Fugaku again leaned down and this time extending both of his arms grabbed the bottom edge of the mattress and with one huge heave the mattress was lifted up on the one side and Itachi was unceremoniously dumped onto the bedroom floor on the other. He was up in the next instant and in a fighting stance no less. Fugaku couldn't hold back his laughter at his son. Itachi whirled around and immediately blushed in embarrassment. Once his father could get a hold of himself again he told Itachi to get ready to go and left the room. Itachi just watched his father go still little embarrassed.

Fugaku ambled on down to Kakashi's room next. He knocked once and got an immediate answer. He smiled proudly as he opened the door. Kakashi was up and moving around his room gathering the clothes he would need for this special occasion.

"I see that you are already up and ready for anything." Fugaku said approvingly as he leaned on the door frame.

"Yes, father I heard you dump Itachi on his head and thought it wise to get up now." The tone was serious but Kakashi's eyes were filled with mirth.

Fugaku laughed again at this. "Yes the boy was way too relaxed. A shinobi should be ready for anything including his father dumping him on out of the bed."

"I agree sir." Kakashi said with a chuckle.

Fugaku pulled himself back up straight from the door frame.

"Kakashi, we are going to let the little ones sleep for another half hour before we wake them alright?"

"Yes sir."

Fugaku nodded and then turned to leave pulling the door closed behind him.

The security teams were out and already doing sweeps of the borders of the district. The Anbu teams that were sent by the Hokage had arrived and after meeting with the elders all four teams set off as well securing their surveillance areas throughout the district. It had been decided that the Anbu teams would maintain stationary surveillance areas around the district while the Uchiha would constantly do sweeps over the borders and through the crowds. One Anbu team remained at the gates of the district just in case anyone tried to come in today. No one was allowed in for the district was closed to the rest of the village for the festival.

A group of clan members made up of both men and women where gathered at the shrine to pick up last minute instructions from the elders on their particular duties. They were given red arm bands to wear so that everyone knew who the helpers were in case they needed assistance. Some of them would be helping the elders that would be going from house to house that had new parents with their newborns. Others would be taking care of the garbage detail while still others would be responsible for getting the tables set up on the main street of the district for the evening's huge family meal. The last group was responsible for helping the vendors that were coming in. A carnival had already been set up next to the exhibition grounds. The people that were to help the vendors would be making sure that everything the vendors needed was provided.

Katsumi made ready to open the shrine doors to her clan as the time for the ceremony was less than a half hour away. She could feel the excitement within her as butterflies fluttering about in her stomach. She lived for this event and the joy it always would bring; but there was another reason for those butterflies and it was an unpleasant thought that slipped across the elder's mind. One she refused to entertain not even for a moment. 'This festival will be the most wonderful of all. Nothing bad will taint it for my people and their loved ones.' She told herself.

The clock in the living room chimed the seven O'clock hour. Itachi looked up from his seat on the couch. He quickly got up and headed for the kitchen where his parents and elder brother where having tea or coffee. Once there everyone looked over at the entrance way to see Itachi standing there.

"The clock just chimed seven O'clock. Shall I go and wake up the rug rats?" Itachi inquired with a smirk.

Mikoto saw the smirk and decided that it wasn't a good offer.

"No, honey I will do it this morning besides I have to help them with their haoris." Mikoto diplomatically said.

Itachi shrugged his shoulders and went and sat back in the living room. He couldn't wait to get this whole thing started. 'I can't wait to see Kakashi's face… well what I can see of with that mask on anyway. I think the ceremony is going to be something that he won't ever forget. Naruto will love the festival but I'm not sure how he'll take the ceremony. I think he will be awestruck if I had to guess. This is going to be great and I wish it could start right now.'

Mikoto made her way down the hall towards the boys' room. Upon reaching her destination Mikoto knocked lightly and getting a reply to come in made her way to open the door. Both boys were awake and they were sitting on Naruto's bed. They had been talking about the day's events until they heard their mother coming down the hall. She was now walking and smiling at them.

"Good morning boys did you sleep well?"

"Yes." They answered in unison happily.

"That's good to hear it is time to get ready for the ceremony. So wants to take his bath first?"

The boys looked at each other and upon reaching a silent agreement Sasuke looked back at her.

"I will mother."

"Good honey then go ahead and take your bath. When you are done I will help you with your haori okay?"

"Okay."

Sasuke swiftly got off the bed and went and grabbed his underwear and pants that were laid out the night before and headed for the bathroom. Once the shower started running Mikoto got up and got both of the boys' haoris out of the closet. Naruto sat on the bed and watched his mother. When she turned around with the shirts he saw the Uchiha symbol boldly displayed on the back of the shirt that was facing him and a nervous smile appeared on his face. Mikoto catching the look instantly walked over and sat next to her youngest.

"What is wrong honey?"

Naruto looked up at his mother with a bit of nervousness still present but the smile was gone.

"Momma, I'm a little nervous. I have never been to anything like this and I worry about Kashi. He has to say vows and stuff right in front of a bunch of people. I guess we're just so used to being pushed out of everything, that I'm not sure how we'll act when we get there. I don't want to embarrass you and father or our brothers."

Mikoto placed the shirts beside her on the bed and turned back towards her son. Placing her hand in his she searched for the right words to say.

"Honey don't worry. Everything is going to be just fine. Kakashi is very strong and he will stand there and say those vows as if it were the easiest thing in the world. You want to know why?"

Naruto nodded his head quickly.

"It's because he will be saying these vows to show his new parents that he wants to become a part of our clan. He will be saying these vows because he loves us; but most of all he will be saying them so that you will have a family, a clan and a future Naruto."

Naruto looked away from his mother and looked at the open bedroom door. The frown still remained on his face.

"I hope he will do it for himself too. He deserves to have a family and a future also." A somber tone made its way out of Naruto's mouth.

Mikoto squeezed his hand gently. "I'm sure that he will come to realize that he is worthy; but until that time he can only do this for us because we mean this much to him."

Mikoto hugged her little son gently as Naruto tried to smile and think more happy thoughts. This was supposed to be a happy occasion there was no room for tears now. He hugged his mother back.

Sasuke had turned off the water and had gotten out of the shower and dried himself. He quickly dressed and made his way back to their room. He was getting ready to say that Naruto could take his turn when he saw their mother hugging his brother. He knew right away why. Sasuke always could read his brother like a book. He knew that Naruto was worried about the ceremony. Sasuke was glad that their mother was there to comfort his brother right now. He doubt that he could have said anything to ease Naruto's mind. Clearing his throat he walked on into the room. Both mother and son let go of each other and Naruto got up a smile plastered on his face.

"Okay Sasuke I'm going to go and take my bath now."

"That's good Naruto. We want you to look good out there."

Naruto smiled brighter and left the room with his underwear and pants in hand.

Once the water started in the bathroom Sasuke looked at his mother with a serious expression.

"They are going to be okay right mother?"

"Yes dear they're just a bit nervous. Naruto is worried about Kakashi and himself at the ceremony. They have never been to one before let alone take part in one. They'll be okay because we will be there with them."

"Yes we will."

Mikoto helped her son wear his haori and the little boy smiled up at his mother when she had finished tying the sash and straightening out the shirt. They both sat and talked about the day ahead as they waited for Naruto to come out and have help with his shirt.

Thirty minutes later it was now seven thirty and the family was heading out the front door. All of them sporting the symbol of their clan proudly on their backs. Kakashi felt weird and kept fidgeting with his mask. Mikoto looked at her eldest and spoke gently.

"Kakashi it is okay. You look very handsome my son. You will do well and you will fit in so don't worry."

Kakashi nodded to his mother as words weren't forth coming at the moment. He was trying to get comfortable with his new attire but it felt so weird. The haori was black with gold trim border around the collar and down the front of the two halves of the opening. The gold trim on the left panel was completely seen since it was wrapped over the right and held there by the gold sash that kept it closed. Kakashi has never worn this style of shirt before in his life. He was also wearing black ninja pants. The cuffs coming to just about his calves. The white bandages were wrapped up his leg from his ankles to the calves tucking nicely under the cuffs of the pants. Kakashi's look was completed with wooden sandals. The sandals were something else that Kakashi had never worn before. He felt like kicking them off but didn't do so.

Kakashi's brothers wore similar clothing. The only difference was the colors of the haoris. Itachi's was a dark brown in color while Sasuke wore his favorite color of dark blue and Naruto had on a white haori. 'All the boys were black pants white bandages and gettas like their big brother.

Fugaku wore a short golden kimono tucked into a pair of black hakama pants. They were baggy and had five pleats on the front with seven pleats on the back. There were two braided ropes with small tassels on the ends attached to the shoulders of the kimono. He also like his sons wore the wooden sandals. Mikoto wore a long kimono which was a light blue in color. The kimono had a design stitched into the cloth. A large crane seemingly stood near the bottom of the left panel of the kimono and reached up to her waist. The bird was colored in white and silver with a dark blue patch over the eye and dark blue speckled through the folded wings and full on dark blue over the tail. Mikoto wore her hair pulled up into a bun with an Uchiha fan ornament tucked into it.

The family looked elegant and noble as they walked down to the shrine. There were many other families making the trek and they smiled at each other as they made their way giving each other greetings as they went. Fugaku greeted everyone they meant as everyone bowed respectfully to him and his family.

For Naruto and Kakashi this was new. They were actually given respect and people moved out of their way for them. It unnerved both of them as this wasn't anything near what they were used too. They didn't have long to contemplated it as they came to the shrine. Several other families were already there and were waiting their turn. One of the elders came out and saw Fugaku with his family and motioned for them to step forward.

Fugaku made his family stay put and went up to see what the elder Koji wanted.

"Koji is something wrong?"

"Yes there is it is you standing at the near back of the line that's what."

"There's nothing wrong with my family waiting their turn like everyone else. I don't want the boys to get the idea that they should be treated differently."

Koji looked as though he would protest but Fugaku cut him off before he could even get started.

"No, Koji. We are not Hyuuga."

This shut up any further arguments from Koji.

"Yes, sir. I understand. I'll see you when you come in then."

"Good."

The family waited for thirty minutes before there turn at finally come. An elder stepped forward and to Kakashi's relieve it was Katsumi. He liked her the best out of all the elders. She never failed to make him feel at ease whenever he was around her. She smiled at him and Naruto. There were three other families that were standing with them. Katsumi was one of the three elders performing the marking and applying of the necklaces to each of the families children. There were two other elders also performing this ritual Asami and Togu. They each stood in front of four groups of families each on either side of Katsumi. The line of people fed into the main entrance of the shrine and then stopped just a few feet away from the three elders. An elder stood before the line and would allow families through to whichever elder had finished with their group first. The three elders stood spaced several feet apart from each other. They each took four families at a time to speed up the process. The table that had the necklaces was placed directly to each elder's right.

Katsumi looked over each of the families, but her gaze stayed on Kakashi and Naruto the longest. The smile was warm and comforting and both boys calmed down considerably under it. Fugaku and the rest of their family was standing right behind them. Katsumi was holding the bowl with the sacred ash.

"Greetings everyone and welcome to the Renew Ceremony. I want to thank you on behalf of the entire clan for bringing us new life. Now let us begin."

Katsumi stepped forth beginning at the family at the left and working her way swiftly down to each of the four families. She placed the Uchiha symbol on each of the children's' foreheads coming to Kakashi and Naruto last. Kakashi had to bend over slightly for Katsumi to reach to place the symbol. Once they all had their mark of membership to the clan Katsumi raised her hands and blessed all of the families. Asking for each of the children to grow up strong and happy. That they be noble as their parents are and defend their clan and their village.

Then the necklace was brought forth and placed around each of the newborns necks. The chain had an adjustable section to it so that the necklace would in a since grow as the child grew thus never having to replace the necklace entirely. Once Katsumi reached Naruto the little boy reached up to touch the necklace. He was in awe of it and everything that was happening and he had to make sure that this was really happening to him.

Katsumi waited patiently for the little boy to accept that this was real and once the little boy was satisfied that it was real. She placed the necklace around his neck. Naruto was so happy at that moment that he wanted to cry but he wasn't a baby so he beamed the biggest smile he could muster. Sasuke reached forward and patted his little brother's shoulder. Naruto looked back at Sasuke with an even bigger smile if it were possible.

Katsumi then stepped over to Kakashi. She took in his gaze at the moment. He was looking at peace and this was what she had hoped for. Stepping forward she reached up with the necklace and again Kakashi bowed slightly to her to allow her to do so. The necklace was clasped into place and she stepped back with a smile. Kakashi immediately reached up and grabbed hold of the necklace gently. Like Naruto, Kakashi was a bit in awe of what has just happened to him. He was in a clan. For the first time ever he was part of a clan. A clan that was alive and well and not just some past memory spoken of by his first father Sakumo. He couldn't say anything for the moment nothing would come forth at all.

Fugaku reached forward and clasped his eldest son on the shoulder as Sasuke had done with Naruto.

"Congratulations son, you and Naruto are now members of the Uchiha." He whispered with pride and joy. Kakashi only nodded and whispered back. "Thanks father."

Katsumi stepped back so that all the families could see and hear her clearly.

"I want all the parents to listen closely."

Fugaku and Mikoto stepped out in front of their two sons. Katsumi looked at each of the families before she spoke.

"Parents as the heads of your families do you promise to raise your children with love and respect?

"Yes. They said in Unison.

To give guidance and discipline to them on their journey through life?"

"Yes.

"Will you love them regardless of their strengths and abilities to nurture them to be the best they can be?"

"Yes.

"Will you protect these children with your lives?"

"Yes.

Katsumi again smiled at them all.

"My prayer is that all of you be given wisdom and understanding in caring for your family now and in the future… This ends the Renew ceremony."

Everyone bowed and the other three families were escorted to the side exit by an elder. Katsumi gestured to Fugaku to stay. He nodded in agreement knowing what was coming next. He turned to look at Kakashi.

"Son come and stand beside me." He commanded.

Kakashi went and stood next to his father. The rest of the family stood behind as was custom. Katsumi was now heading back over to them with four other elders. A tall man of middle age and dark brown spikey hair walked alongside her. The other two elders walked behind them. Fugaku leaned towards his son and whispered in his ear.

"This part is the vows Kakashi. The tall Uchiha, Hiroki by name will be giving you the vows that you need to repeat. Say them with all your heart Kakashi."

"Yes father I will." Kakashi whispered back.

Katsumi and Hiroki approached and stood in front of the two men. Hiroki nodded in greeting and the nod was returned by the two men.

"Kakashi Hatake Uchiha, I am Hiroki of the Uchiha and I am here along with Katsumi, Daichi and Isao to hear and give witness that you are taking the Vow of Loyalty. Do you have any questions before we begin?"

"No, sir."

"Very well then let us begin."

Kakashi squared his shoulders and stood tall and proud on behalf of his family and for his clan. He wasn't sure if he was worthy of such an honor as this that was about to be bestowed upon him; but his family believed in him as did his clan. He would not disgrace them now by chickening out. He was doing this for them.

"Kakashi Hatake Uchiha please place your right hand over your heart and repeat after me." Hiroki commanded.

Kakashi did as he was told and placed his right hand over his heart. At that moment he could feel it pounding against his hand. The rhythm of his heart was smooth and strong and he felt so alive more so now then he had for a very long time.

"I Kakashi Hatake Uchiha." Began Hiroki.

"I Kakashi Hatake Uchiha." Kakashi confidently repeated.

"Will walk a noble path bringing honor to my clan and my village."

"Will walk a noble path bringing honor to my clan and my village."

"I will never disgrace my clan or village by becoming a traitor or rogue."

"I will never disgrace my clan or village by becoming a traitor or rogue."

"I swear to give my life in service of my clan and my village."

"I swear to give my life in service of my clan and my village."

"I and my clan are one."

"I and my clan are one."

Hiroki removed his hand away from his heart and Kakashi followed his action. Hiroki allowed himself a small smile.

"Excellent Kakashi and congratulations. You spoke with conviction. I could hear clearly in every word you spoke that you meant what you said. I am honored to be in your presence."

"Thank you sir. I thank all of you and my family for being embraced by all of you. I will not let you down." Kakashi spoke with gratitude and bowed immediately after speaking.

The elders that had heard him bowed in turn and after shaking Kakashi's and his father's hands they departed back to their tasks.

Fugaku turned and embraced his son whole heartedly. Kakashi returned the gesture with equal fervor. The rest of their family joined in on the hug and there were tears in Mikoto's eyes as well as Naruto's. They both were was so proud of him. The father and son separated and began to hug all members of their little family. This was a joyous moment for all of them. They had made it through the final tier. Kakashi and Naruto were Uchiha by clan recognition now.

---

A/N: Well there are a couple of things that I want to explain. The part with Itachi summoning the crow to get pizza. First I really didn't know for sure if anyone used a cell phone in the cannon. I have seen Sakura with one in an ending song part but never actually in any episode that I could remember. Therefore I had used the crow instead.

Secondly, at Shinji's place there is a kind of like drive- through except this would be for the messenger animals that are sent by ninja who are too tired to go in person to get their pizza. Shinji has a large shinobi clientele as well as a civilian one. The animals would line up beside the building where there is a sliding glass door. Above the grounded animals would be posts for the birds to stand on. The birds would hop to each post until they were at the window. The worker would take the message from the dog or other animal and also take one of the messages from the birds. He would then pass the notes to another worker who would take them over to the cooks and thus create the meals. The next dog and bird would move up and the whole thing would continue until they had all been served. The animals would poof out of sight once the message had been delivered.

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