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.

37. Uchiha Will Always Rise with the Sun pt3

A/N: Final Chapter. To everyone, I would like to say thank you for having stuck with this story until the end. I would also like to thank future readers of this story as well.

Cathyscloud 9 and Snow-kim, thank you for the reviews and the continued support and inspiration. It really meant a lot. To everyone that has written a review because they just felt like it or just faved and or followed this story. From the bottom of my heart. Thanks.

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Uchiha Will Always Rise with the Sun Pt3

Tuesday, August 8th of the Calendar Year.

A couple of days later and Kakashi was awake and listening to his family tell him of all that he has missed in this short space of time.

"The Enami destroyed our district. The only part left are the farms." Replied Itachi as he sat in one of the plastic chairs next to the bed.

"Really? How many casualties were there?" Kakashi's voice showed concern.

"A total of sixty fine men and women of our clan and allies." Their father added while he was staring out the window with his back to his sons. "Sixty of our clansmen and allies and it sickens me even now to think of just how low the Enami thought of us to go to such lengths."

Kakashi let the statement sink in along with his father's tone. The man was mourning and there was anger mixed in with it. Kakashi instantly wished that he had been there for his father, but that wasn't possible and there was no sense saying it either.

"We all will rebound from this, father. I know that we will."

"Yes, that is certain Kakashi. It's just that I keep thinking that none of this had to be, but it doesn't really matter now. What does matter is that we help those to heal that helped us in our darkest hour."

"I hope that the village will get off our backs now that the truth was presented by the Daimyo."

"Yeah, I hope so to Itachi. Hey what about Yashiro and Shiori? Did they find the bodies yet?"

"Yes, they were found not too far from each other. I guess…maybe about a mile apart?" Itachi looked over at his father for confirmation of what he just said.

"Yes, son. They were both found in dumpsters. Yashiro in a dumpster next to a clothing store that is having its roof replaced and Shiori was dumped right next to the restaurant that she and her friends had been at. Both clansmen were somewhat buried under the trash. This time around I guess Wraith didn't want it to be so obvious to anyone that had the unpleasant fortune of finding them. It was very unlike him to do this. We should have found them sooner, but the situation with the Enami made it impossible for anyone to think straight." Fugaku said as he moved away from the window and looked at his sons.

"There is something that I want to tell the both of you."

"At some point after Kakashi is released from here. The two of you will be sent out to the refugee camp. This will happen most likely after Shisui is presented by the Daimyo as the Fifth Hokage to the village. I need to get clearance from commander Murai first and Kakashi needs to be in better health of course.

"-But why father?"

"-Because the clan needs to know what has happened here for starters. Second of all I want to know how our clan is holding up and particularly our family. Naruto should be waking soon if he hasn't already and I want to know how he is doing. Besides, you boys miss the others as much as I do and there really isn't anything more you can do here right now."

"How long do you expect it will take to rebuild our district?"

"I was told that it will take about three months. There will be three groups within the district at work. One group will be responsible for building the residential part while group two will be handling the rebuild of the businesses and group three will maintain the farms. I would like for you two to go and ask for some volunteers to come back to help with the farms and the rebuild, but I don't want everyone back here just yet. I'm feeling still unsure of having everyone here while others from within the village and even outside of it come to help us rebuild. The Daimyo has assured me that those that come from the outside are all people that he has personally approved of to help. I am grateful but I am not ready to trust anyone other than those who aligned themselves with us just yet. I think it best to keep the children and the elderly away from here for the time being."

"I agree with you, father." Replied a pensive Kakashi. "We can't let our guard down just yet. At least not until the district is back in one piece again."

"Well I don't mind. I've been waiting for an opportunity to pester Sasuke. I'm sure he is making a nuisance of himself by now to mother and Uncle." Itachi chimed in.

Both Fugaku and Kakashi looked at Itachi with an incredulous look and then looked at each other before letting out a chuckle.

"You never change."

"No, I don't. I have to keep Sasuke on his toes don't I?"

"You would do that anyway without an excuse."

"True. Very true."

Fugaku glanced at his watch at that statement and decided that now was a good time to get going. He had to be back in the military police station. Since the battle over his district, Fugaku has had to rely on substitute help from the regular corps mostly in running the station. With most of his clan in hiding, The Head of Clan, has had to adapt to the temporary changes as well as the rest of his clansmen that were part of the military police force.

Most of the brethren have gone with the others to ensure the safety of the children and the elderly. When Kakashi and Itachi are able to go. Fugaku hopes that about a fourth of his entire clan will return. Most will be needed within the district of course, but he needs a good thirty of his men and women of the force to come and hold down key positions at the station once more. The corps were doing a fine job but they weren't trained in police work and the paper work was a nightmare to deal with for a lot of them.

"Well, boys, I need to go back to the station. I have only a skeleton crew there and a lot of green regular corps ninja trying to help out."

"Yeah, it's bad if Genma is there." Retorted Itachi.

Kakashi snorted at that comment. Fugaku only smirked before going over and hugging Kakashi and then turned and went to hug Itachi.

"Don't worry about Genma, Itachi. You are the one I worry about."

Itachi brought his right hand up to his heart mocking a hurt and shocked look. His antics earn him a laugh from both father and brother equally. Smiling their father waved as he headed out the door.

The refugee camp at 11:00am.

There was noises all around him. He could feel that he was lying on his back on something hard. He tried to listen more closely to the noises in hopes of making out where he was. There were birds singing in the background as many voices were also heard. So he wasn't alone and because the singing was so close and loud, He figured that he must be outside. Maybe in a tent perhaps? He concentrated on the voices. He wondered who these voices were. They sounded familiar to him, but he just couldn't place them yet. His mind still felt fuzzy. He decided to go back to sleep for a while longer. He didn't know where he was or who he was with but at the moment it just didn't matter.

He could hear the voices again. He was still lying on whatever hard thing he was on though now he realized that there was a soft cushioned padding under him that he hadn't noticed earlier. He wonder how long he had been out. He decided to focus on the voices again. One voice among the three was young while the other two were older. 'Who is this? I think I remember this voice. It sounds like…like Sasuke! Sasuke is here!'

Suddenly Naruto was trying to open his eyes. It was so bright and he was forced to close them immediately without seeing anything but the brightness of the light. He found himself groaning softly as he tried to open them again. He felt movement near him and he panicked for second as he tried to open his eyes again. This time his eyes began to adjust to the light and a face that was looming just over his.

"Naruto?"

Naruto blinked a couple of times and now could make out that it was Sasuke leaning over him.

"Hey, bro where are we and how long have I been out?"

"It's been over two weeks since that nasty fight with Pig Man. We are in a refugee camp in the woods away from the Leaf."

"Where is everyone? Did Kashi and Itachi come too?"

"No they didn't Naruto. They stayed behind with father so that they could help out. We haven't heard anything lately so we don't know what's going on, but Uncle Takeshi says that we should be getting news soon."

Sasuke didn't tell Naruto that a messenger had been sent to inform them that two more members of their clan had been murdered. He just didn't want to hit his brother with something like that after he has just woke up. So he kept that quiet for now.

Naruto heard the sound of movement and looked to see that his mother an uncle were now also hovering over him. Mikoto was on his right side and now holding his hand gently in her own, while his uncle was kneeling next to Sasuke with a hand on the boy's shoulder as he peered over him to look at Naruto. Naruto let a smile light up his face.

"Hey, honey, how are you feeling?" Mikoto said softly with tears rimming her large dark eyes.

"I'm fine momma. Don't cry. Kurama said that I would be fine and I am. So please don't cry."

Mikoto used her other hand to wipe away the gathering tears as she said.

"I'm sorry. It's just I have missed you. I missed your smile. We all have."

"Yeah, boy, and don't you do something like that again. Hear me? Cause you gave me a few more grey hairs. That is something that only my brat Shisui does."

Naruto chuckled at that and he could tell from the look on Sasuke's face that he wanted to add to that, but he wisely kept his mouth shut for the moment. This made Naruto's smile bust into a grin.

"I'm glad to be back."

"We're glad to have you back and thank that fur ball inside you for us too." Sasuke answered.

Naruto suddenly giggled as the 'fur ball' had replied to Sasuke's comment.

"What is it honey?"

"It's Kurama, momma, He says to tell Sasuke that fur balls are things that cat's hark up."

"Cats hark up hair balls not fur balls!" laughed Sasuke.

Mikoto watched her sons and her heart warmed at the sight and sound. It was good to have Naruto back and it was good to hear Sasuke laugh again.

Konoha at 12:45pm at the Hokage tower.

The Daimyo was looking over his short speech that he had hand written the day before in preparation for Shisui's official day. In fifteen minutes both men would head to the top of the tower to its large and spacious roof to give the ceremonial speech and presenting of the Leaf's newest Hokage to its citizens.

He will make this short and sweet because everyone has already been informed about the events that have taken place over the past few days. Thinking back on those days, the feudal lord found himself amazed at how well Shisui had held together and kept everyone else sane and together through the traumatic ordeal. He was amazed at how well Shisui handled Anonymous and then when he was confronted by the head of the organization himself. Then the Enami and the decided punishment that Shisui had decided on. The members that were the masterminds of the plan had been executed the day before without fanfare. It happened only a mere three hours after the rest of their clans had left for parts unknown. 'Truly, you have made a wise choice, my old friend.' He thought proudly.

"My lord, the villagers are beginning to gather out in front of the tower." Shukaku Nara said.

Looking at the clock on the wall, the feudal lord realized that it was time. Time to bring the era of a new vision of Hokage.

"Let's go. I'm ready to begin."

The ceremony for Shisui's official status as the Fifth Hokage was about to begin. The Daimyo was standing at the forefront of the platform ready to make his speech. Shisui waited a little nervously though none of this showed as he stood tall and proud on the platform before thousands of Konoha citizens and shinobi alike. As the Daimyo began, Shisui thought back to yesterday afternoon. That Monday was the day that he said farewell to the Enami, Wakimoto, Minowa, Okazaki, and the Teruya clans whom were all 'rehabilitated' and sent out before dawn from the village. Using a teleportation technique, the clans left of their own accord willingly. Their minds all seared with the desire to leave before dawn. Believing that they wanted none of the rest of the village to know because it would cause sadness to everyone including themselves.

Shisui didn't like to resort to such tactics, but felt that in the end this was necessary. The village had been told that these clans were banished for their own good just a few hours later after the clans had left. To many people, the clans leaving was probably for the best. The memory of the attack on an innocent family that was butchered in the streets just outside the hospital regardless of their clan name was something that was still talked about among many. Hearing of the destruction of the Uchiha District further fueled people's talk that such actions were vile. If a group of people decided that others weren't fit to live within the village. It gave them no right to take justice into their own hands and try and murder an entire clan of the village. This would only lead to anarchy and war within the village. The governing body should handle any such disputes or injustices. Therefore a person or a clan should go to them and not take matters into their own hands. Thus was the thinking behind what was being said by many villagers.

Today they were getting a new Hokage and for most of the village this was great news. It gave reassurance to everyone that Konoha would survive. Therefore people listened to the Daimyo's speech with hopefulness for a better future for all of the village's people. Shisui perked up once he heard the feudal lord coming to the end of his speech. He was about to introduce the village's new Hokage.

"It gives me great pleasure to present to you, the Fifth Hokage. Uchiha Shisui." He said proudly as he extended a hand out towards Shisui to step forward.

Shisui stepped forward on cue and everyone gasped in shock. Without giving into nervousness or fear, Shisui bowed his head acceptingly of the Hokage hat that the Daimyo placed on his head. The robe was already upon Shisui's shoulders. As he raised his head back up, Shisui looked out over the crowd. They were shocked and that was an understatement, but they soon snapped out of it the moment as Shisui began his speech. They were attentive to hear him and even eager at that.

"Greetings citizens of Konoha. I Shisui Uchiha will start off by saying that I was just as shocked as you are now. When I learned that I had been named by the Third Hokage to be his successor. I never thought that I would be anything but Anbu and I was content with being just that. It has always been an honor to serve this village and I have been proud to be Anbu."

The crowd settled in and were becoming less and less nervous and apprehensive as their new Hokage spoke. Gaining confidence from this, Shisui powered on in his speech.

"I promise you all that there will be no bias for my clan over the rest of village. My clan would not appreciate such nonsense anyway. They live to protect this village and have done so for many generations. This is home to them and to all of us here and I will lead with compassion and fairness, but I will not be a push over either. I will do what's in the best interests of this village to ensure its prosperity and safety. I do this not alone. I will do this with all of you supporting me all the way. Together we can make a future that will bring about peace and continued prosperity to Konoha for many years to come."

Some within the audience scoffed at those words but were quickly glared down by everyone around them and they quickly shut their mouths.

"I know that it has been hard lately. There has been so much unrest among us. So much uncertainty of what the future would hold. There has been attacks by madmen wanting to rule this village in tyranny and there has been many protests and battles within the streets. It's time for all of that to end now. I know that there are those among us that feel unsure of me for many reasons, but I assure you that I have only the desire to lead the village well. I will not tarnish the Third Hokage's memory nor will I make his choice in me a vain one. Together we can all make Konoha an even better place. Now let us all move forward to a better tomorrow!"

The crowd let out a round of cheers and applause at the end of the speech. They were ready even eager to put the past behind them and move forward. The Daimyo had told them that it was Shisui who led the fight against Anonymous. He also told them that it was Shisui who had outsmarted the master mind of the deadly group. This pleased the people and it pleased them that the matter with the errant clans that attacked the Uchiha were dealt with in the manner that showed that their new Hokage would not show hatred nor revenge either.

The cheers went on for several minutes before the Daimyo stepped forward once more and dismissed everyone to their homes.

Monday, August 14th at 10:45 am.

Shisui was on his way to meet with the Elders of the Hyuuga clan. With him were Shukaku Nara, Yoshimi Satomura, Inoichi Yamanaka, and newly appointed Hanako Aichi, a woman that aids in diplomatic negotiations. She is a businesswoman as well and is the only one able to strike a deal with the Raikage of Kumo that benefits both villages. They were all anxious over what could happen at the compound other than Shisui. For him, this was serious business that he would not back down from. The message he would send to them was clear. Either they comply with the laws of Konoha fully or they can find themselves a new village to call home. He wasn't playing with them. Ten squads of Anbu were also in route to give back-up support if needed and Shisui had no problem with using them to get his point across. He was truly angry with the Elders of the Hyuuga, but also with its main house. Still, Shisui knew that he could not go and start off the meeting by yelling and threatening these people. The future of the branch families were at stake in this meeting. If he didn't play his cards right, Shisui could cause the branch families more harm than good.

They reached the outer gate of the compound to find the guards waiting for them. The Anbu teams had gone into hiding around the compound. They would go in at a moment's notice should they be needed. The newly appointed Hokage walked up to the guards, who bowed respectfully at his presence.

"Greetings, I am here to speak with your Elders."

"Yes sir. We have been told to allow entrance once we had seen you." The first guard said.

"Please come this way. The Elders await."

Everyone moved off towards the entrance of the gates. One guard opened the gates and another guard from within greeted the entourage and said that he would be escorting them to the meeting chambers. Nothing more was said by anyone as they all walked on in silence. The outer compound had gardens on either side of the main walkway. There were other paths that intersected within each of the gardens. As one moved towards the inner part, you could see the beginnings of some residential neighborhoods popping up on both sides of the main street. As you walked down the main street, there were several other intersecting streets connecting to the main with rows upon rows of houses on either side of the main street. This was the beginning of the branch family residents.

The inner section of the compound opened up into a wide court area that had several buildings that lined the periphery of the main walkway area and pathways that led back alongside those buildings. The group continued on straight ahead of them passing the inner court area and just beyond that was another set of gardens on either side of the main pathway and just ahead of those was another gate. Beyond these gates was the meeting chambers of the Hyuuga and the main house residences.

The group walked through the gates and looked all around them as they were led straight to the chamber building. The building was of two –story size and reminded everyone a little of the council chamber hall. The escort stopped before the double doors of the chamber and knocked twice. The door was immediately opened and the group was led inside.

A small entry way greeted the group and another set of doors where just ahead of them. The group was taken to the doors and where led inside without knocking first. Inside the Elders all sat in a semi-circle facing them. Several chairs were lined up just in front of the semi-rounded table that was in front of the seated Elders. The group was led up to the seats. The Fifth Hokage took the middle seat as was instructed. The rest of the entourage sat on either side of him.

"Greetings and congratulations Hokage sir for becoming the first of your clan to ever hold the title of Hokage. This is truly a new day for our village." Greeted Tama as he stood with the rest of the Elders and bowed.

"Thank you." The Fifth replied. "I think you know why I have come here today?"

"Yes, yes we do and we can't say that we are surprised." Tama said as he sat back down with the others. "We assure you that we have no intentions of causing this village any future harm."

"I'm grateful to all of you, however I must air my concerns to you."

"We are listening."

"I am hoping that you will see eye to eye with me on the topic of the branch families. There is no easy way to say this so, I will just speak my mind."

"I want the ownership of the branch families to cease immediately."

A few Elders eyebrows rose at hearing this demand, but said nothing. Tama was the head of the Elders and it was he who would speak.

"Hokage, sir with all due respect. This matter is no business of the village's. Our fathers made that very clear when we joined to this village."

"Yes they did, but recent events demands that I take a look into this matter. Hirashi was out of line and you have done nothing to hold him in check. I have evidence that all of you knew how he had achieved his brother's organization."

This made some of the Elders to squirm in their seats. Tama sat cool and confident. He knew that this day was coming. Hirashi truly screwed everything up, but Tama was sure that he could reason with the young man that wasn't even half his age.

"I assure you sir that we have everything under control now."

"Really?"

"Yes, sir we do. We disowned Hirashi and banished him. We don't care what happens to him as long as he isn't here anymore. We have also chosen Neji, Hizashi's son to be the next Head of Clan for us. He is being groomed for this title even as I speak."

"-And how is that grooming being taught?" Countered the Fifth. "Is he being taught to value all of his clan? Is he being taught that all the Hyuuga can grow to reach their full potential and thus increase the strength of their clan as a whole?" Or is he being taught the same things that will lead to another Wraith or worse another Hirashi? This village has seen enough of those kinds of things here. We have all suffered because of people like them that were bred here in this compound."

Tama stiffened a bit. He hadn't expected this young Hokage to be so forward and determined. He realized that he was making a mistake. The same mistake that Hirashi had made. He underestimated this young man, the Fifth Hokage. He leaned back in his chair. Trying to figure out a way to counter. Then it hit him.

"Sir, I do believe that each clan by law of the village is permitted to rule their own affairs to their own discretion. We the Hyuuga, found it necessary to reign in the branch families with good reason. It has everything to do with properly preserving our Kekkei Genkai. Truly, you should be able to understand this?"

"Look…Tama. I know that every clan wants to protect their bloodline limit, but the way your clan goes about this is causing problems for this village and I'm here to put an end to it. One way or another."

The Fifth looked Tama dead in the eyes with determination as he said what came next.

"I am ordering that this clan be brought together as one. There will be no more branch anything within the Hyuuga. You will give the branch families equal status and will teach them all of your clan's jutsus and there will be no more slavery. It is common knowledge not just in this village but in half the shinobi world that your clan indulges itself in child sex slavery on top of other things dealing in slavery. This isn't what this village is about. We do not go to defend the rights of others and turn around and deny our own those same rights. The former Hokages were at a disadvantage when they signed and agreed to allow such heinous things into this village. This isn't the case anymore."

"Are you saying to end our way of life?" Tama accused angrily.

"I'm saying to change your way of thinking. Grow beyond that archaic way and reach out for something that is better. Your clan can become so much more to yourselves and this village.

"-And what would you say if we say that we refuse?"

The Fifth Hokage sighed and leaned back in his chair.

"Then I must order you to leave this village for good. There is no room for such behaviors that are being practiced here."

Elder Izumi stood suddenly from his chair. The sudden movement sent his chair backwards violently to the floor.

"YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS!" He shouted.

The Fifth wasn't startled by the outburst.

"I am. This clan will end its slavery practice and unite into one fully recognized clan or you can all leave and any branch family members who wish to remain here and askes for refuge will be granted it.

"What are your reasons for this outrage?" Demanded Minako.

"Wraith…I understand that he was a branch family member. His parents were forced to give him to Hirashi and Hirashi abused him and forced him to break and once that happened. He and the other members of Anonymous began to train him to be an assassin for their cause. This caused him to become the dangerous man he became. I shouldn't have to remind you of the deaths to the villagers that he has caused. I shouldn't have to tell you how Hirashi had made the decision that reigning over the village wouldn't be enough. That he would desire to rule the world. He had even planned on doing away with all of the main house and you, the elders of this clan."

The Fifth now leaned forward placing both hands folded out in front of him.

"Your practices are destroying lives and warping minds and in time will destroy your clan altogether. Therefore I have decreed that it ends here today."

All of the Elders were now clearly upset. When they had agreed to this meeting it was with the idea that they would be in control of the situation by telling the new Hokage of the banishment of their former Head of Clan. They thought that by telling him of placing Neji as the new Head that, somehow the Hokage would see that the Hyuuga saw the error that was Hirashi and had made a correction to better suit the village and themselves. They truly believed that they could fool this Hokage because he was so young. A child in their eyes really. A child that could be easily manipulated simply because he was younger than them. They were clearly wrong.

Tama was trying to think of another way out of the mess that this new Hokage would make of their lives. Again he gained confidence when another idea came to him. He began to challenge once more.

"The decree made by the first Hokage stating that no Hokage is to interfere with a clan's internal affairs. Each clan has the right to govern how they live within the village."

"This is true but it also states that a Hokage may intervene in clan affairs if said clan isn't functioning well within the village; yours as I have just stated is not. Lives have been lost due to your Head of Clan. The first death being that of his own brother and your fellow clansman. He took over his brother's organization and was intending to overthrow the government of Konoha and place himself as supreme ruler. No clan has the right to over throw the Hokage and his council."

The Fifth Hokage glanced over the entire group of Elders and at this point. They all looked like they had swallowed a very bitter pill. There was a part of the Fifth that was angry with their stubbornness to cling to something that was so wrong and causing pain. Yet he knew that these people have lived nearly their whole lives under this ridiculous system and it would take time for them to truly embrace his ideals.

When nothing more was being said by Tama, the young leader decided to hit on something that would bring reason to the table.

"I want the Hyuuga to stay with us, but not in the way it is now. Make the change and continue to be a part of us or take your chances with what is outside the village walls. You haven't forgotten the near abduction of Hinata have you?"

All of the Elders eyes widened at this statement. They had forgotten that it had only been a few weeks ago when ninja from the Land of Lightning tried to kidnap the young heiress. The Fifth was looking intently at all of them now to see if they would begin to understand.

"You fear your own clansmen of the branch families of gaining more power than yourselves. Yet who is the greater threat? A group of people that are of your own blood and are a part of your clan. Or strangers from another village hell bent on tearing every set of Hyuuga eyes they can get a hold of?"

"We fear retribution by our own clansmen for having placed them under such rule for so long a time." An Elder that was older than Tama spoke out in a dejected voice. "We have hurt our own for so long with these practices and there are some among the main house that have always been against these things, but were never in the majority and therefore never had the power to change anything."

"It is not too late for you. You can still do this and know that I will help your clan through this transition. You are not alone here. The Leaf will stand behind Hyuuga in embracing this change. What you need to do first is acknowledge that the practices have been wrong and drop them. We will help you through the process then to working with the branch family members. It's your choice in the end."

'There it's all laid out on the table for them. Now it is up to them to decide what they will choose next.' The Fifth thought as he watched the Elders begin to talk among themselves of the matter. He glanced over at his advisors and found them all looking very pleased with what was happening so far. To the young Hokage, this was as good as a vote of confidence in his leadership if there ever was one. He smiled back assuredly to the others, but inside he could hear that voice in the back of his mind reminding him. 'It isn't over just yet, Shisui, wait until you have been given the Hyuuga's answer before you decide to celebrate.' The smile disappeared at that thought as he turned back to look at the Elders.

The talk went on for more than thirty minutes but in the end, Tama was ready to speak with their unanimous decision.

"We of the Hyuuga clan accept the order and the conditions set forth by our Hokage. We will remain here within the Leaf."

The following day by no later than nine that morning. People were beginning to hear of the most incredulous news aside from the new Hokage being an Uchiha. Today everyone was hearing about the Hyuuga clan's change of heart. The part that had everyone talking most about it was the fact that it was their new Hokage that brought sense to the clan. Since the establishment of the village, no one was able to change the Hyuuga's mind over their practices. There have been other people who have tried to get them to see reason from different walks of life, but their efforts were always shot down.

The new Hokage was gaining the people's trust with such a bold move. The things that the Daimyo had told them on the day that it was officially announced that Shisui Uchiha was now the Fifth Hokage hadn't been forgotten either. Over all everyone was pleased. You could say that they were even a little excited. The civilians weren't the only ones talking of course. The shinobi were talking as well. Those that were extremely critical at first were starting to warm-up ever so slightly to the idea that maybe having an Uchiha wasn't so bad after all.

By noon the news was given officially from the media that the Hyuuga had indeed given up their slavery practices and dropped the two branch system. There were rounds of applause coming from everywhere within the village, but nowhere more so than at the Hyuuga compound itself. The branch families were elated to finally have their freedom. They celebrated discreetly within their homes as they didn't want to offend the main house. Everyone knew that this was going to be quite an adjustment for not only the main house but also for the branch as well. Still it was a time to celebrate this wonderful event.

In the main house, some people were just as elated as the branch families of the turn of events. They all agreed that if it hadn't been for Hirashi and the child he took from Hotaka and his wife Sakiko. A boy of only four years of age named Masaki, their lives would not have changed. They mourned the child's memory, but not the man that he had become. That was unforgiveable what had been done by him to others even if it was Hirashi that was responsible for the outcome. In their minds, everyone has a choice to make. Wraith could have done differently they believed. Even with the horrible way that he had been treated. It still didn't make it right to take other people's lives and certainly not in the way that many of them went from this earth.

For their new Hokage, he was keeping his promise of having counselors come and help the two sides work out their new clan ways. The advisors of the Hokage appointed knowledgeable and trustworthy people to come and work with the clan. The Fifth himself stopped by over the next few days to check on their progress even though he was now an extremely busy man.

The Daimyo had left town for his own home in the capital city, but before he left. He helped Shisui pick the last of the seven advisors to the Hokage. They were all people that loved the village and shared the views of the new Hokage and all of them have either served at some point in the military or have family that does now. The members are as follows. Shukaku Nara, Inoichi Yamanaka, Kenji Uchiha, Yoshimi Satomura, Mikuni Sango, Esumi Kameyo, and Hikaru Tani. Shisui was familiar with all of these people and had even worked with some of them. The Daimyo swore them into their positions and this was the turning point for Konohona, because it marked the end of village council. No more meetings with a bunch of out of control people fighting for their own interests or that of those that they took bribes from. Some of the council faced charges for these very reasons and were found guilty.

The Leaf was also having its first ever clan rebuild happening. Several people from outside the village had started arriving today and were being placed in temporary accommodations in preparation for the Uchiha District rebuild. The build would begin the next day bright and early. There were also several people within the village that were permitted to join in to help. Supplies had been arriving in the district for the past three days and though there still isn't enough of the materials needed. There is sufficient enough to begin.

Fugaku kept himself busy with reworking the security while all of these people were there for the build. Everyone that was going to be a part of the build had to wear a photo I.D. badge and an orange arm band around their right arm. The Clan Head worked the security detail over several times with his clan and trusty allies until it was to his satisfaction. Once the plan was complete it was nearly five-thirty that evening. Fugaku called the meeting done and everyone went home for the night. Planning on arriving early the next morning so that they would have security up and running before the first construction workers arrived to begin.

Fugaku left the large beige tent that would serve as security headquarters and started to walk home. All along the streets he found smaller beige or green tents spread out in the back yards of houses that were no longer there. He was heading 'home' to his own tents that were in his own back yard. 'This is so surreal to being walking along the streets that only a few days ago had houses and now only a few tents here and there are all that remain.' The though and sight sent a shudder down middle-aged man's spine. He shuddered again when he arrived at his own plot of land. The fence and gate and the first set of steps that led up to the now missing porch was still intact. Fugaku shuddered and sighed.

A light came on in one of the tents and the silhouette of his eldest son could be seen as the young man moved about inside. Fugaku watched as his son moved with confidence and not slumping with his head down as if the weight of the world was on his shoulders. He was moving with purpose and Fugaku knew in that moment that he needed to go into the tent with the same mind set. The past couple of days have weighed heavily on his mind. There had been so much to deal with and he had shoved his feelings aside so as to focus on the task at hand and to keep up the morale of his men, but the weight was getting heavier. Seeing his district lie mostly in ruin was the final blow. Seeing Kakashi, reminded Fugaku of something he thought he would never forget. 'We must stand strong in adversity. We must stand together as one to support one another. We never bow our heads in defeat when we are at the closest point to gaining victory. We do not live forever in darkness. For the Uchiha, will always rise with the sun.' The words rang clear and strong in his mind as they replayed like an old recording. This brought a smile to his lips as the leader of the Uchiha moved on towards the tent of his sons. There was also some good news that he wanted to tell them as well.

Reunion at the Refugee Camp

August 19th at 9:00 am.

"Kakashi are you ready to go bro?" Itachi asked as he was coming into the makeshift tent that was set up in their back yard. Their father had told them great news last night and Itachi was eager to get on the road.

"Yeah, just give me a sec. I need to pack a few more things." Kakashi said while busily stuffing more items into his backpack.

Today the brothers were getting ready to leave for the Uchiha refugee camp. The trip that their father had told them of was finally happening. They would be gone for two weeks and at the end of which they would return with some of the clan. Their father had told them that they were to relax and enjoy their time away and not to worry. Now that the enemy had been silenced for good. Everyone was breathing a little easier.

Kakashi was excited to be going. He missed his family and knew that Itachi did too. He was also a little nervous, for their friends were going with them on this trip. Everyone other than Ibiki that is, Ibiki still had quite a bit to do now that they had promoted him to head of the T&I unit. It was going to take a little getting used to on his part. Before he only had to deal with the cases he had been assigned and the Yamanaka would help him out when he needed it. Back then it was about interrogations and getting the truth out of stubborn prisoners with any means necessary. Now he was in charge of the entire unit. He was still there top interrogator though and that was the only reason he accepted the damn job. Running around holding everyone's hand to make sure they did their job wasn't his style.

As for the rest of their friends, Asuma, Kurenai, Anko, Gai, Raidou, and Genma were all coming along for one week. 'This is going to be hell.' Kakashi thought while he finished his packing. 'Then again this could be just what we all need. I just hope the clan is ready to deal with our friends.' He mused as he now lifted the back pack.

"Ready, bro?"

"Itachi, please don't ask that one again."

"Sorry." Itachi responded then a new question came to mind. "Do you think our clan is ready for our friends?"

At this, Kakashi flat out laughed.

"They better be. It not like they have a choice."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I'm really surprised that they all have been given permission to come along."

"Yeah, me too, but then again it's our cousin who is now the Hokage. He knows the stress we have been under all this time. I guess Shisui, figured he would do us a favor and give us this time with our friends as well as our family." Kakashi said thoughtfully as he picked up the now packed back pack.

"Do you think that father will be okay while we're gone? I won't lie to you big brother, I'm sure that I will start missing father as soon as I arrive at the camp."

"I know. I will start missing him as well. It's hard when our family is split up like this, but the building of the district is going to take some time and father made a good point when he said that, the clan needed to stay out of the village until after the rebuild is done. It's too soon to just believe that it's safe to drop our guard just yet."

"We can never truly drop our guard. The Enami taught us that much."

"Agreed. Now let's get going. The others should be waiting for us at the main gates by now."

The two young men left the tent making sure it was zipped up to keep stray cats and dogs out while they were gone and headed for the village main gates. Their father was nowhere to be seen as he hated good-byes even if the boys were only going to be gone for two weeks. He had hugged them both before he left earlier to see to the rebuild which was to start today. So the boys left and made their way quickly to the gates. Thoughts of their waiting family and clan swirled around in their minds.

Genma was bored. He arrived first at the gates and was leaning up against them for a good fifteen minutes before Gai showed up.

"My, my, my, you finally decided to show up, Gai. Genma teased. "I thought you would be the first one of us here."

Gai wasn't concerned at his supposedly lateness. He simply kept up his usual upbeat attitude.

"No need to worry my friend. I Might Gai, may have not been here first this morning, but I assure you that I was doing a very noble deed by helping my neighbor get her cat out of a tree."

Genma was about to scoff and say that it was the lamest excuse he had heard in years. Then he noticed the scratches to Gai's left cheek and chin. Further inspection showed him that, Gai's hands were also sporting red stripes that looked angry and painful.

"Ouch." He said in sympathy for his friend.

"No need my colleague. I assure you that it would take much more than this to bring down the beautiful blue beast of Konoha."

At this time arrived Asuma and Kurenai together and Anko bringing up the rear.

"Well, I see that half of us are now here. That just leaves the Uchiha brothers and Raidou."

"I wonder how long their going to be?"

"I don't think much longer. The brothers are eager to see their family and clan again. So I don't think we will be waiting for long.

"Yeah and don't forget that Raidou won't waste time either. He doesn't like to keep his friends waiting on anything."

"That's true."

The group fell into silence as they waited. The time was eight forty-five in the morning. Gai, couldn't stand still and do nothing. So he began doing push-ups to pass the time. Anko looked at him with an incredulous look.

"Really? You're going to exercise while you wait?"

"There is never a bad time to train my friend. Keeping our youthful bodies fit for action should always be on our minds."

"Well…I don't know about that one. Training is important and all, but I like to let my body rest some too. This is also important to maintaining our youth."

"Yeah, what she said." Replied Genma which immediately had Anko frowning. Genma agreeing with her this early in the day wasn't a good thing. Something horrific was about to come out of the man's mouth. She just knew it.

"Yeah, I wouldn't mind resting my body with yours, Anko or hell I wouldn't mind training my body with yours in say your bedroom?"

"DAMN IT, YOU PERVERT. I'M ABOUT TO KICK YOUR ASS!" Anko roared.

Genma was grinning a wolfish grin now as he replied.

"See? You can have training and rest at the same time by getting your partner riled up. Fighting comes before foreplay am I right? Talk about your youthful energies!"

Anko went to slap Genma's head into a spin. When Raidou reached for and grabbed her hand.

"Easy, Anko." He said. Then turning to look at his unashamed friend. "As for you, heel boy, heel."

This made everyone laugh including the gate keepers, who just couldn't contain themselves. By this time, the Uchiha brothers were now making their presence also known.

"Genma, am I going to have to put a muzzle on you for the entire trip?" Kakashi drawled bored.

"Hey, eternal rival, let's have a race and see who gets to the camp first?"

Kakashi glanced over at his friend and shook his head.

"Gai, I would say yes, except you have no idea where you are running too. I assume no one has told you where our clan's hidden camp is?"

"Yeah, Gai, it wouldn't be much of a race if Kakashi has to lead you the whole way to the camp site."

This made Gai pause for a moment and then hiding his embarrassment. He placed both hands on his hips and let out a hardy laugh.

"I knew that. I did. I was just testing you my rival to see if you were awake yet."

Everyone groaned and shook their heads at that statement.

"Come on, everyone. We need to get going. I need to see my family…my little brothers. I don't know if Naruto is awake yet and I'm worried about Sasuke." Relied Itachi as he adjusted his back pack and started to walk forward.

"Yes, let's get going. Agreed Asuma.

The group then nodded to the gate keepers who nodded back and off went the group for the refugee camp.

Naruto was sitting outside of the tent on a log. He could see his mother just a few feet away from him at the one of many camp fires that were burning this morning as everyone was busy making breakfast for their families. Seated next to him was his loyal brother and friend, Sasuke. Naruto had been a wake now for only a little more than a week now. Eight days ago he had woke up from his coma induced sleep by Kurama. Eight days and he still felt a bit stiff and sore. He still couldn't move around very well, though he was improving daily. He still got tired easily too, but when he asked his tenant about these things. Kurama just shrugged his shoulders as he said. 'I'm sorry, Kit, but there is only so much I can do. Your body is going to be like this for a little bit of time. We have put it through a lot lately and it needs for us to be patient and give it the time it needs to rest.' Kurama went on to say that Naruto's body should be back to its old self within another week. He found himself sighing out loud suddenly from the thoughts in his head.

"Is everything ok?" Sasuke asked with concern.

"Yes, it is and sorry for making you worry and having to do so much for me right now. I know it's annoying."

"No, Naruto it isn't. I don't mind helping you. You're my brother and I'm just happy that I was able to protect you while you were sleeping."

This made Naruto smile. He remembered Kurama telling him about the medics and how Sasuke had kept him safe from a most pushing female medic.

"Whatcha thinking?" Sasuke asked curiously.

"Oh, I was thinking of what Kurama had told me once about you fighting some medics."

Oh…yeah, I didn't trust them around you very much, so I kept an eye on them."

"Ah, that's not all that happened!" Naruto countered almost teasingly but happily, as he leaned into his brother's shoulder a little giving him a nudge.

"What…did Kurama tell you about that?" Sasuke asked now a little concerned. He knew that Kurama could be a little bit of a liar just to spice things up sometimes.

Naruto laughed at his brother's expression of dread.

"Oh, nothing much except he said that you went psycho on the girl medic who tried coming into the tent by force. He said that you knocked her back so hard and far that she was knocked out when she hit the ground. After that the poor girl won't come anywhere near this tent because she is scared of the 'crazy boy'."

Naruto raised both his hands to either side of his head and made the fingers bend slightly to make them look like claws. Then he made a scary face to complete his image of 'scary Sasuke'. Sasuke couldn't help but snort at the image.

"Your silly, Naruto."

"Yep and that's why you love me so much. I'm the silly brother."

"I don't think I would brag about that too much."

This made both boys break out into laughter. They soon quieted down though and Naruto saw their mother looking over at them with a warm smile. He smiled back at her and then speaking to his brother while still looking at his mother, Naruto asked Sasuke in a serious tone.

"I haven't asked in all this time, but how has mother been doing and uncle while I was out?'

"She was and has been strong for both of us. I know that she was missing you even though you were right here with us, but yet you weren't Naruto. I also know that she is worried about our brothers and father. We haven't been getting much news and when we do it isn't good most of the time."

Sasuke paused a moment as some children were beginning to wonder over in hopes that they could play with Naruto. He knew better than to think that they wanted any of his company at this point. He hasn't been interested in them at all. Protecting his brother has been, Sasuke's top priority. He wouldn't and couldn't have anything happen to his brother. He couldn't bear to think of what Itachi or even Kakashi would think of him, if he had let them down. Especially, after he had promised both of them before they parted from the village that he would protect Naruto. So these kids would just have to get over it in his opinion.

The little group started over with much resolve that soon dwindled and then disappeared. Naruto was inviting with his warm smile and happy and bright eyes. Sasuke, on the other hand was sitting rigid and ready to pounce on them. His eyes were dark and threatening and that was more than enough for the kids to decide to change course and go anywhere else but over there. They still remembered the attack on the medics and weren't fond of having to spend a day in their tents getting patched up by the same medics.

Naruto looked over at his brother and sighed when he caught the look that Sasuke was giving the kids even after they left.

"You know, Sasuke that you don't have to protect me from social time. Those kids weren't' going to do anything bad to me. They are our clansmen for crying out loud! Naruto scolded gently.

He knew that his brother's protective drive was still on high alert, but this was starting to be too much. Sasuke closed his eyes and let out a deep sigh of his own.

"You're right, Naruto, but I want to finish answering your question and those kids were going to distract me from doing that. They are clan, but uncle is family."

Naruto decided not to say anything about what he heard, at least not now. He wondered just how bad he was himself. The battles that took place within the village over the two of them has obviously left scars but how deep do those scars go and can they overcome what has been done to them? He wasn't sure; but for now he would let it go. Sasuke knew that his brother had something on his mind. Probably something along the lines of 'you shouldn't treat people like that all the time, Sasuke.' Yet mercifully Naruto didn't say it aloud and for that, Sasuke was grateful. So he continued to tell his brother about their family.

"Uncle is taking everything in stride. He messes up sometimes and says things that he doesn't mean or didn't say the way he wanted and then leaves and heads into the woods to train or find more fire wood or things like that."

"Oh, I see." Naruto answered and looked up at the small amount of sky visible through the canopy of the trees. "Do you think we will be able to go back home soon? I miss the rest of our family."

Sasuke also looked up at the sky.

"I hope so Naruto, but from what we have been hearing. I don't think it will be anytime soon."

Both boys became lost in their own thoughts at these words. The silence between them lasting until it was broken by their mother's gentle voice.

"Boys. Come and eat. Breakfast is now ready." Replied their mother.

Sasuke helped Naruto to get to his feet as he was still a little wobbly and they both went and sat with their mother and uncle around the campfire.

Kakashi knew that they had been running now for a while and that everyone needed to rest, but a part of him still wanted to run. He could still run. He wasn't tired and the eagerness to get to his family was strong. Sometimes he swore that his native family clan, the Hatake, were part wolf or maybe were wolves that became human in some long forgotten past. It wouldn't have shocked him if it was truth somehow. Looking over at Itachi, however made him change his mind about continuing and give everyone a break. Itachi was doing his best to hide how tired he was beginning to feel, but his brother saw through him anyway.

Kakashi suddenly dropped out of the tree he was moving through and landed gracefully onto the ground below. The others immediately followed suit.

"Why are we stopping?" Inquired Raidou gamely.

"We all need to rest. So let's take thirty minutes before resuming our travel." Kakashi drawled out with a bored expression.

Genma didn't need coaxing or an explanation. He immediately dropped onto his back and laid their sprawled out onto the ground. His chest was moving rapidly up and down as his lungs struggled to gain more oxygen into them.

"Damn it, Kakashi." He wheezed out. You, you nearly killed me. I thought I saw my life passing before my eyes just now."

"No that's just your fantasy life that was passing before your eyes moron."

"Ouch that one hurt. "

"Hey, does anyone want some dangos? I brought a bunch with me to share." Replied Anko.

"Yeah, I'll have one please. Replied Kurenai.

"Me, too." Answered Asuma.

Everyone went and sat down near Genma, who was now beginning to get his breathing under control. Gai placed a dango into Genma's raised hand. The man couldn't talk anymore if he wanted to get his breathing under control. So raising his hand alerted Gai for his desire for a dango too. Or at least this was what Gai thought he wanted anyway.

"You can't breathe and you want to eat?" Asked Anko incredulously.

"I need to, I need to keep up my strength and stay alive. Or how else am I going to keep my fantasy life with you going?"

Anko would have hit Genma on the head for insinuating them together, but she took pity on him because he was wiped out from the run. Still she feared that Genma would prey on this act of sympathy when he could breathe again. Thus, making her hit him anyway in the end. She sighed and then realized that Itachi hadn't asked for a dango.

Itachi also laid down and stared at the sky. His thoughts on his brothers. He equally worried for both of them. Anko was surprised when Itachi didn't ask for a dango and wondered what was wrong.

"Hey, Itachi, are you sick?"

"No, why you ask?" He said distractedly.

"-Because you didn't want a dango. You love dangos, maybe more than I do."

"Sorry, but I'm just not hungry right now." Everyone looked at each other for a moment. Then Kurenai went and explained the situation.

"You're worried about your little brother's. It will be okay, Itachi. We will get there soon and you will see them and I know that they are doing well and if Naruto is still not awake yet. Then he will be before we all leave to head back home. I'm sure of it." She consoled.

"Yes, my young Itachi, the powers of youth are immeasurable!" Gai shouted a little too loud and Anko stuffed a dango in his mouth to shut him up.

"We're in the woods. Keep it down!" she hissed at him.

Itachi either didn't pay attention to the two or just didn't want to comment on their antics as he said.

"Thanks everyone, I appreciate your kindness."

The group was soon up and traveling again. The break proved to do everyone a great amount of good as Kakashi could see the territory of the Zaizen clan just ahead of them.

"Everyone heads up. We will be getting company any minute now."

"Good or bad?" Asked Asuma.

"The good kind." Answered Itachi. "The Black Claw Gang will be coming to escort us into the Zaizen Clan's territory and to the campsite."

No sooner did the words leave Itachi's mouth and seven members of the Black Claw Gang appeared before them swiftly. Kakashi raised his hand to signal to stop and everyone came to a halt. The leader of the Black Claw came forward.

"Greetings, Kakashi and Itachi Uchiha." He said. Then he looked over the others. "Who might these be?"

"They are our friends that have come to spend a week with our clan and family. They are no threat." Replied Kakashi as he and his brother bowed slightly in greeting.

The leader and his team returned the bow.

"It is good then." The leader said as he waved a hand out and away from him gesturing in the direction they would need to go. "Come and let us be on our way. The family is eager to see you, as is the clan."

With that said the group took off towards the camp. The Black Claw surrounded the entourage as they made their way. Raidou didn't like this but didn't say anything. He had never met this gang before and wasn't sure of them. Anko shared his concern, but she also kept her opinion to herself. 'These people are allies of the Uchiha and if the Uchiha trust them then so shall I'. She mentally told herself.

It took the group more than forty minutes to reach the camp, but when they did the clan was already standing together in a large group waiting. Standing in the forefront of it was an almost too good to be true surprise. Naruto was standing next to their brother Sasuke with the biggest smile that neither Kakashi nor Itachi had ever seen before. It choked both of them up immediately. Their prayers have been answered after all. They had prayed that they would see their little brother awake when they arrived and here he was. The wonderful little ball of sunshine was finally awake and looking well.

No one moved for a moment. Each side was taking the other in and then without a word both older siblings took to running to their younger brothers. Dropping to their knees on the ground in front of them, Kakashi and Itachi both hugged their brothers. Their mother and uncle sported different reactions to the scene. Mikoto had a tear in the corner of each eye and a wide smile. While her brother smirked and looked every bit the proud uncle he was. Both were extremely happy to see the older boys. Both wanted to hug them and find out from them how they had been in the absence of their family and they also wanted to know how Fugaku was doing; but neither of them said anything at the moment knowing that this was a time for the boys themselves.

"Kashi, I missed you and Itachi and father for so long now…" Naruto stopped himself for a second and realized he needed to rephrase it. "Okay maybe not for a long time. I've only been up now for a week, but ever since then I have been missing you a lot. Believe it!"

Kakashi didn't say anything, but Naruto could feel his big brother's response. Kakashi's whole body shook in the attempt of keeping his laughter silent and Naruto was feeling these vibrations which made him giggle.

Itachi had a bear hug on Sasuke. The little boy's face was turning beet red from embarrassment. Both of his arms were waving franticly at his sides before he finally tried to pry himself loose from his over excited brother. When that failed to get him anywhere, Sasuke used what didn't ever fail him. His mouth.

"Itachi…Itachi let me go. I'm not a plushie or your imaginary girlfriend."

This did the trick as Itachi was letting go of Sasuke like he was a hot potato. He was also quick with a comeback too.

"Hey, little brother, you are my plushie. When I squeeze you like this…" Itachi proceeded to hug his brother again. "Instead of a squeak or a round of good-natured dialogue. I get bad-tempered Sasuke talk."

"Damn it, Itachi let me go!"

"See!" Itachi said as he laughed and let go of his brother.

"Sasuke, don't use your uncle's language." Mikoto lightly scolded.

"Sorry, mother." A remorseful Sasuke replied.

Uncle Takeshi's good mood dropped at that and he could hear everyone behind him snickering at him. He turned and gave them all a look, but they went on with their laughing and he sighed and turned back around.

The boys finally let go of each other and both of the older ones stood up. The little ones were now looking up at them and Naruto made his way over to Itachi for a hug. He was picked up and hugged close by his number two big brother. He hugged back with a squeal of laughter. Sasuke went over to Kakashi and tried not to look as though he wanted a hug too, but Kakashi was picking him up and giving him one. Though not in overkill like Itachi. Kakashi knew that Itachi liked to push Sasuke's buttons. Kakashi on the other hand, preferred not to wind up the little boy most of the time. So their hug went off without any yelling from Sasuke.

"Hey, I missed you little bro and I see that you kept your promise. You protected our little brother for us. Thank you." Kakashi said.

"I didn't want to let either of you down. I tried real hard, Kakashi."

"I know little brother. I know."

Kakashi put Sasuke back down and received hugs from both his mother and uncle. Itachi finally put Naruto down to receive hugs from his family as well.

"Well now that we have reunited. Let's go into the camp so that you and your friends may get settled in. Then after lunch we would very much like to hear from all of you what has been going on in the village." Suggested Takeshi.

"Now that sounds like a great idea." Replied Genma who stepped forward and then remembering that he was supposed to show manners bowed before the group.

The rest of the friends wanted to jump on him and beat the crap out of him for embarrassing them. Instead they all smiled awkwardly and bowed. The clan and the Black Claw gang were amused but were kind enough not to call them out on it. Instead they all waved them on and then turned to go back to the main part of the camp.

The elder siblings and friends got settled in right away and the brothers spent time with their little brothers while lunch was in the making. Kakashi and Itachi's friends respected this need of their friends to spend that time with their family and went off to talk to the clansmen or even some of the Zaizen clan that had come out to bring some provisions. The Black Claw gang stayed out on the periphery of the camp site. They were providing protection not social services and thus kept out of the camp unless they were called for.

The Uchiha brothers had gone to the back side of the large tent that made home for their family. There behind the tent was a large space of grass that stretched from the clearing back into the woods behind it. Kakashi and Itachi would set up their own smaller tent right behind their family's tent. The Zaizen members having placed the tent for them in front of the family tent before heading to drop off more tents for their friends. Now with the tent in his hands, Kakashi and Itachi along with their younger siblings went to set it up. The little ones were trying to help them and were more in the way than actual help, but neither of their older brothers minded. It was while they were putting up the tent that Kakashi noticed that Naruto would wobble now and then and that Sasuke was quick to steady him each time it happened. In fact, he noticed that Sasuke stayed close to Naruto all the time. Though Sasuke appeared much calmer now that they were here. The little boy never really let his guard down. Kakashi decided that he would have a talk with Sasuke alone when a convenient time presented itself.

The tent was pitched and the meal was made and everyone was called to come and eat. Mikoto had some help with making the meal as Kurenai and Anko both helped her in cooking. The men made a second campfire to speed up the cooking of the meal and now everyone was seated around the campfires and eating their lunches. They chatted and shared a few jokes as they ate and soon the meal was finished with many of the clansmen starting to drift over towards the little family.

"We don't mean to rush so please take your time. However, when you are ready we are eager to hear about the village and the other members of our clan that stayed behind." Sayuri, the wife of Shin, the Elder and one of the farmers of the Uchiha District, said politely. Her two children Kira and Keiko were standing on either side of her. They both waved at Sasuke and Naruto, who returned the greeting.

"Yes of course, we were told to come and stay for two weeks, but that wasn't all. We are to tell you of the events that have taken place as well." Answered Kakashi.

"May we have the clan gathered in the clearing behind our tents?" Itachi added.

"Yes, of course."

"Good. We will meet with you in a couple of minutes. I just want to finish this fish."

"No rush. I'll get everyone together in the meantime."

Sayuri and her children and the few others with her went to gather their clan together behind the family's tents.

Once everyone was gathered and Kakashi had finished his meal. The little family went to the back of the tents and got situated. Both elder Uchiha brothers stood side by side while everyone else sat pretzel style in the grass a few feet away.

Kakashi had asked for time to finish his meal before this began. It was true that he needed time to finish, but that wasn't the only reason for asking. He needed to decide what he was going to say to them and what he was going to leave out. The fact that two clan members had been murdered by Wraith weighted on his mind. Here among his clan was the two clansmen's families. Kakashi had been told by his father to not to say anything about how they died if he were asked. Fugaku had already sent messengers to tell the family of the deaths and Kakashi knew that the bodies were on ice back at the morgue waiting for their families to return home to the Leaf to bury them properly. So there really wasn't anything that he could say about it.

Kakashi also wouldn't tell them anything about the Hyuuga clan either. The Hokage and his advisors were still working with the Hyuuga and they didn't want any details of what is going on. The Hyuuga didn't need any outside influence or trouble from the public. What the civilians already knew wasn't enough for them to say or do anything about it. This would be mostly worked out with the Hyuuga themselves with some guidance from the Hokage and not everyone else.

Kakashi told Itachi not to mention either of these things as well and if they were asked in the course of divulging what information they were allowed to give. They would simply say that the information is classified for the time being and they weren't allowed to speak of it. Thus, armed the two young shinobi started telling the news of the village and of their district.

When they learned that Shisui had been named the Fifth Hokage. There was first a very loud collected gasp from the clan and then loud clapping and cheering. Both of the brothers knew that they would not be telling the clan anything else after that, which was why they had left this bit of news at the end.

For Takeshi this was most profound news. He was so shocked at first that he did nothing but stare off into the distance and not seeing anything. He remained this way for several minutes until his sister, Mikoto began to worry about him.

"Takeshi? Takeshi are you okay?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm alright. I just…my son…the little bastard did alright didn't he sis?"

"Yes, big brother. Shisui has become a fine young man and now the world will know it. Congratulations, father of the Fifth Hokage." Mikoto gave her brother an embrace that was filled with pride and happiness for her brother and her nephew.

Takeshi returned the hug with equal feeling and then let go. Looking at his sister he said.

"Yeah, ah, yeah thanks, Mikoto. I think I need to spend some time alone and wrap my head around this news."

"Okay, you do that, but don't' stay out to long or I will send my boys after you."

Takeshi chuckled faintly at that and then turned to leave. He was becoming overwhelmed with emotion. 'This is something that every Uchiha has dreamed of since they were old enough to understand what was happening in the village. He thought. 'Now it has finally happened and it is my son. My son that is the Hokage now! Shisui…You did it boy! You did it!' I don't know if I should slap you on the back and congratulate you or break down in front of you and bawl like a baby. I never thought it would happen and for it to happen to you is so good and yet so unbelievable.' Takeshi found himself on a run. His body was giving him an answer for the time being. Run. Run and let the workout of his body calm his mind.

The week with their friends proved to be a whirlwind of activity and fun for everyone. The news that one of their own had become Hokage was cause enough for a week of celebration within the camp. Every evening there were large feasts and much dancing and singing. Several clansmen joined in doing a fighting exhibition for their clan and all of the Uchiha brother's friends were welcomed to join in and did so. For Asuma and the others this was a side of the Uchiha, which they had heard about but have never seen before. The clan was ever stoic and reserved outside their district walls. It wasn't that they weren't approachable. It was more like they were always trying to keep control of their emotions. This side was a refreshing side to see and the friends felt honored and privileged to be able to see and be a part of their friends clan and family.

When the week came to an end so did the celebrations. It was time for Asuma and the others to return to the Leaf. They had to be getting back to work and none of them wanted to go. They had such a great time with the Uchiha clan. Who knew that they could party so well? Now Asuma stepped forward to hug his friends.

"Hey, Kakashi take care of things here and return to us again ready to work. You hear?"

"Yeah, Asuma, I will and you keep the rest of the gang out of trouble while I'm gone."

"Hah, that's easier said than done, but yeah, I will."

Asuma then went and hugged Itachi.

"Hey, squirt keep an eye on your big brother. Make sure that he gets back to the Leaf on schedule."

"Don't worry, Asuma Kakashi is duty bound. Besides father is there alone. Until we are all together once more, Kakashi will fret. My job is more like making sure that he doesn't over stress about the family. For Kakashi family is everything."

"I know kiddo. Take care of yourself."

Asuma let go and backed away. Waiting for the rest of the friends to say their good-byes. Gai was the last one to do so and of course there was the exuberant joy that always came from Gai over his friends.

"Kakashi, take care of things here and be ready to return and face-off against me in another awe inspiring match against yours truly."

"Seriously, Gai?"

"Yes, my rival! I have lost the last match we had making the score so far to be twenty-five to twenty-four. I must have a rematch. I will show myself the victor next time!"

Kakashi was hearing every word that Gai said but at the moment he chose to appear as if he wasn't.

"Ah, did you say something, Gai?"

Gai fell on the ground in shock, but was swiftly back on his feet.

"Ah, you're always being so hip and cool, Kakashi, but one day I'll be just as cool. You'll see."

Genma couldn't resist though he should have.

"Ah, Gai if you want to be cool. Then you can start by getting rid of that ugly eye sore of a uniform. That thing doesn't promote 'youthful in any way, shape or form." He teases.

"This uniform is the ultimate in ninja gear my friend in both comfort and function and as for form. Can you not see how it shows the youthful power of my form?

"I get an image but I still don't think I would want to be seen in that nor have anyone else see me in it either. It's creepy."

Guys, guys enough. I'm going to have a damn headache long before we get back to the Leaf." Asuma said tiredly. Then looking at his friends.

"We're off you guys. Take care and we will be waiting for you back in the Leaf."

With that he and the others waved and Kakashi and his family waved back. The friends left being once more escorted out of the campsite by the Black Claw gang.

The following day Kakashi took his brothers out to the river for a swim. He wanted to help Naruto regain more strength and swimming was an excellent way of doing just that. It would exercise all of his muscles without straining or damaging them. He also wanted to take them all swimming because he wanted to help Sasuke to open up. He knew that something was eating away at his little brother and he was going to get to the bottom of it and find out what. The little ones had been through a lot over the past year and Kakashi was amazed that both boys were doing as well as they were under the circumstances. Still, they needed to relax and heal and swimming at the river was one way to do that.

They spent the afternoon there. Naruto was being taught how to swim and Sasuke was busy trying to one up his brother Itachi on everything from who could make the biggest cannonball splash to who could splash the other with the most water. After some time had passed, Kakashi decided that Sasuke needed a break from Itachi and a rest. Naruto, on the other hand needed to be able to just play in the water now and Itachi was his guy for that. So the older brothers switched up. For Kakashi, this was the time to have a small talk with his little brother and find out if what is going on with Sasuke was something that was going to pass or was it something to be concerned about.

"Sasuke, let's go and sit on the bank and rest for a few minutes."

"Okay."

The two made their way over and sat on the bank. Sasuke began to pull at a blade of grass and busied himself with tearing the blade into very tiny pieces as he sat pretzel style on the ground. Kakashi also sat the same way with his hands resting on his knees. Almost as if he was about to go into meditation.

"So, Sasuke, how have you been lately?"

"I'm okay, Kakashi."

"I see. You have worked hard to protect Naruto and I'm proud of you little brother, but I don't want you to forget that he is able to fend for himself now."

Sasuke looked over at his big brother wondering where this was going and at hearing the words he can fend for himself. Sasuke now knew what Kakashi was trying to say to him.

"Big brother, I know what you are trying to say. I do." Sauske answered as he watched Itachi launch Naruto in the air and then watch Naruto hit the water only to go right back to Itachi for him to launch him again. All the while laughing as he did so.

Kakashi also watched his two other brothers at play, but kept his ears focused on what was coming out of the mouth of the brother next to him.

"I have been keeping an eye on Naruto. I don't want him to be hurt anymore. He's been through so much already."

"-And you haven't?" Kakashi was now looking at Sasuke.

"This isn't about me, Kakashi. It's about Naruto. I just don't want him hurt."

Kakashi ran a hand through his silver locks as he thought of what to say next.

"Look I know all about the medics and I agree that the girl was a little out of line, but Sasuke what about after that? You do realize that mother and uncle are here too right? They would also protect Naruto and besides the medics are here to help not hurt."

Sauske was starting to feel annoyed with Kakashi. He didn't know why and it was starting to stress him a little. He pulled more grass and this time not one blade either, but several of them.

"I know that mother and uncle love Naruto and would protect him. I really do, Kakashi. The thing is this… we have been chased, beaten, threatened and were attacked not once ,but three times in our own district. The second time it happened Naruto was kidnapped. I'm not stupid. No one would tell me what had happened when he was out there, but I was the one that was meant to be the target that day, Kakashi, me."

Sauske found that tears were beginning to form in his eyes. He hated it. He swiped at them angrily and continued.

"I wasn't able to help my brother when the enemy attacked us at uncle and auntie's shop. I wasn't even allowed to go and help him once everyone knew where he was and later everyone tried to keep it a secret what had happened to him. Even Naruto wouldn't tell me. I know that it was bad. It was very bad and I there I was unable to do anything."

Another swipe at his eyes and Kakashi reached out and gently stroked the top of his brother's head. He would be here for Sasuke and let him vent out all of his frustration and anger. This was more than Kakashi was hoping for as Sasuke isn't one to easily reveal what is going on inside of him. The little boy went on.

"When Pig man came into our district that second time and attacked us in the woods. I vowed that I would be the one that would sacrifice everything to keep Naruto safe, but it didn't work out that way. Naruto ended up saving us and having suffered so badly for it. Kurama had to step in and put him in a coma so, that he could heal him." Sasuke looked away from the river and his happily playing brothers who were both oblivious as to what was taking place on the bank and looked at his big brother next to him.

"You have no idea how much that hurt me, big brother. I had failed again and this time it was the worst because I was trying my hardest and it wasn't enough. We ended up coming here." Sasuke said as he waved his arms to show that he meant the camp site.

"Here we are with people that I don't really know at all. In a place that I have never been at before and with a brother that isn't able to fend for himself at all. I had to keep Naruto safe this time no matter the cost. I promised you that I would. I promised myself that I would. I need to do this!"

Sasuke had become so emotional now that the Sharigan activated in response to his feelings and was ready to take on anything at that moment. Kakashi knew that it was time to reel in his little brother before he lost control and did something that he would regret.

"Easy, Sasuke." He soothed. "Easy, I understand and I am not judging you at all. I just wanted to know what was going on inside of you. When you hurt or are angry you should come to me or Itachi, though our brother acts like a goof ball sometimes. Remember that he loves you and would always take you seriously if you went to him about any problem or struggle you are having. The same thing could be said for mother, father and even Uncle Takeshi. Uncle Teyaki and aunt Uruchi are also available to you as well."

Kakashi placed a hand on his little brother's shoulder. A shoulder that seemed to be carrying the weight of the world on them. He rubbed gently massaging the joint carefully. He could feel how tense and wound up Sasuke was.

"You're not alone, little brother. You remind me of me when I was fourteen and had been given Naruto as an infant to raise. I felt so alone and it seemed like the world was conspiring against us. I loved Naruto from day one and wanted nothing more than to see to it that he was happy and cared for. There were so many people against us, Sasuke. So many people that wanted Naruto dead or in chains and there were so many people that hated my guts and would have loved to have spilled them out on the ground for me."

Kakashi sighed as he remembered the hatred back then. He looked back out over the water to see Naruto and Itachi still playing, but now Itachi was showing Naruto how to make water squirt out of his hands like a water pistol. Kakashi smiled at the sight and then continued to speak as he watched them.

"I learned over time that I couldn't do it alone. I also learned that Naruto is stronger than anyone thinks. There were many times that he rescued me and in ways that I had never thought possible. He was the one that kept me from slipping into such a deep hole of depression that I would have lost myself and perished. He was the one that told me that maybe it was time to take the offer of love from your family and become part of something bigger than just us alone. By agreeing and doing just this, I learned that I could trust my new family to protect my little brother. I learned that I could come to any family member when I was struggling with something or had a problem that I couldn't see a way out of. I learned that it is okay to love and be loved in return. I learned Sasuke, that it isn't weakness or being a coward to admit that you need others as much as they need you. Let mother and Uncle help you and understand that Naruto doesn't need you to be his caregiver or protector. He needs you to be his friend and brother."

A smile was present on Kakashi's bare face. The mask was hanging down around his neck. Sasuke couldn't help but smile himself as said.

"Thanks big brother. I will try and do what you have said. I can't say that it will happen overnight but I promise to remember and try my best. Naruto, is special. You just want to do your best to be there for him because you know that he would be there for you."

"Yeah, I know what you mean, Sasuke. Now how about we get back out there and join them before its time to head back to camp?"

"Yeah, I want to torment Itachi some more." Sasuke wickedly grinned.

At that Kakashi let out a laugh and both siblings got up and ran back into the water causing the other two to pause and see what was going on. Both let out a noise of appreciation when they saw their brothers coming.

Refugee Camp September, 2nd at 9:00 am.

The second week had now come to a close. It was time to return back to the village hidden in the Leaves. Kakashi was gathering together the small group of clansmen that were heading back with him and his brother. The clan had two weeks to decide on which members would be going back now. Some of the farmers and several military policemen were heading back. There were also a few business owners that were going as well.

Itachi had finished up his packing and was taking down the small tent that he and Kakashi had been using for the two weeks of their stay. His mother and younger siblings were standing nearby watching him. Naruto had tears in his eyes. This being a part was hard on him and Sasuke put an arm around him saying.

"Don't cry Naruto. We will be going back home soon. Then we will all be together again forever."

"Yes, honey, Sasuke is right. This is only temporary. We will be home soon and we will be together again." Mikoto soothed warmly.

Naruto swiped at his eyes and put on a smile.

"Yeah, we will be together soon. I just wish it was all of us going back home now."

Itachi was finished with the tent and stood up.

"Everything will be fine, Naruto." Itachi said. "We will be coming back to take all of you home and it won't be long when we do. I promise."

"Besides my boy is Hokage now and what he says goes. If he says we will be home as soon as the construction is down than we will be." Takeshi said as he walked up to the group. He was sweating from having been out in the woods training and had rushed back once he was told that his nephews were getting ready to leave now.

"Is there any message that you want me to relay back to Shisui, Uncle?"

"Yeah, just one. Keep up the good work boy. I don't want to have to kick your as-." Takeshi caught himself but there was still giggles coming from the little one and a groan of mortification from his sister.

"Well, you know what I mean, nephew." Takeshi sighed.

"Will do, Uncle."

Itachi left everything on the ground as he went and hugged each member of his little family.

"I'll see all of you soon."

Kakashi came around the back of the tent and saw his brother saying his good-byes.

"Itachi, it is time."

Kakashi went and hugged his family as well. He went further with the little ones by picking each of them up at once and hugging them close.

"I'm going to miss both of you, but I will be back soon. I promise I will."

"I'm holding you to that, Kashi."

"Yeah, me too, big brother."

"Then I will be certain to remember it. Good bye for now squirts."

Kakashi placed both of the boys down and then looking over at Itachi.

"Let's go, we got a ways to get back."

Everyone moved off towards the beginning of the camp to the left side. There the whole clan was gathered to see off their loved ones and kin.

"We shall await your return in eagerness." Replied Takeshi to the group that was leaving.

"We shall wait eagerly for the day. When we shall all be reunited again." Answered Shin for all of them.

The group leaving bowed to the group being left behind and then turned to run off with the Uchiha brothers in the lead and the Black Claw escorting them all out. Even though he said he wouldn't cry anymore Naruto couldn't stop the tears that were now falling freely from his eyes. He was going to miss his brothers all over again.

Home Coming

September 4th Monday at 10:30 am.

The Uchiha siblings had returned with some of the clan coming back with them. They had spent the last couple of days getting reacquainted with their district. Even though the rebuild was in full swing, there was still evidence that there had been a tremendous struggle here. The head of the construction teams felt that the top priority was getting the homes rebuilt as quickly and as efficiently as possible before winter set in. Therefore, no one thought about the damage elsewhere in in the district. Such as the play grounds and the small parks that were dotted about the district. The scorched ground and the evident bombs that had been thrown by the proof of pot mark holes in the ground and the scorched and burned trees told the tale. The clansmen walked the length of the district in shock on their first day back. They couldn't believe that all of their homes had been destroyed. The messengers that had been sent had told of this, but it was a completely different thing to be actually viewing it in person. Everyone walked in silence for a long time just taking everything in. Their Head of Clan walked with them and didn't say anything either.

Fugaku wanted to allow everyone to just take it all in without him pointlessly rambling on and on about what they were seeing. They could see for themselves from the devastation around them how the battle went. As they neared the end of the residential area, gasps of shock went up from the throats of some of the clansmen as they saw their burnt houses barely standing. Entire blocks were taped off with the yellow and black caution tape that surrounded them. These blocks had not yet been reached by the builders, who would raze the buildings and then begin the rebuild. It was here were the clan was able to tell the magnitude of the violence left behind by the fierce battle.

Here they stood for some time viewing the damage and Fugaku could already surmise what it was that they were all thinking. He had thought the same thing back when the battle had ended and the magnitude was far worse. He had gone at first light to see the extent of the damage to his beloved district. He will never forget the despair and guilt he felt that day and knew that he never would. The true shocker for everyone that was viewing this scene now was the level of hatred that was thrown at the district. For everyone that was standing here now, it was obvious of what the consequences could have been had the clan been home at the time. The enemy had meant to wipe out of existence the Uchiha.

Finally after what seemed like hours. The clan was ready to move on. Fugaku took this as his cue to now speak up.

"I'm sorry that I could not save our district. All of our homes have been lost and the only thing left is the farming area which wasn't saved due to our efforts, but rather the enemy knowing that the food produced here is needed by all of the village. The only thing that we were able to protect was our shrine and even that suffered some damage."

Fugaku felt and looked pained. There was another part of that sentence that he couldn't bear to speak, but the thought ran through his mind all the same. 'Yeah, and I'm sorry that I couldn't save the lives of some of our clansmen who died in this battle as well.'

"I'm so sorry." He could only repeat.

A tall man stepped forward and spoke up, Yuudai, by name. He was around thirty years of age but spoke with a wisdom beyond his years.

"We are not disappointed in neither you nor our allies. All of you fought valiantly for our homes. The more important thing here is the fact that you with your quick thinking saved us. The clan. This place reeks of a horrible and fierce battle. If we had been here there would have been a far greater loss than just the homes that can easily be replaced. So thank you for keeping us alive by sending us away. We are forever grateful for your courage and sharp mind."

Everyone began agreeing with Yuudai's statement. Many clansmen gave pats on Fugaku's back as they tried to reassure him that all was well. Fugaku was glad for their kind words, but he knew that he wouldn't ever forget. Some of the clansmen standing here giving him reassurance are the same people that have not only lost their homes, but they have also lost loved ones who had volunteered to stay behind and fight. So even though Yuudai was right in what he said. He wasn't totally right either. The sting of this would last a long time and Fugaku found himself wishing that he could see his own wife and younger children again. He quickly dismissed the thought though. This wasn't the time and neither did it seem he even had the right.

Hokage tower at 1:45 pm.

Shisui was standing at the window in his office watching over the people that were currently walking up and down the busy street in front of him. He would be meeting with his advisors again in just fifteen minutes from now. They were to discuss the building plan in the district of the Uchiha and there was the matter of a new holiday that the villagers were asking their Hokage for. This topic brought a small smile to the young Hokage's face. Everyone within the village was trying in their own way to make up to the Uchiha for what happened to their clan. It was flattering but wasn't necessary. Shisui knew for a fact that neither Fugaku nor the Elders would be very pleased with a holiday that was based off them. It wouldn't be taken very well by any of them. 'Still, having a holiday that speaks of unification of the entire village as one wouldn't be such a bad idea.' He thought as he reached up and rubbed his chin in continued thought. 'We need a holiday that centers on all of as one people and not separate factions or clans. We celebrate our differences, but we can also celebrate as one. We are a people that all live here in the village called Konohona, A village that shares the same ideals of living. We protect each other and provide for each other within these walls against a hostile world without. I can think of no better reason for having this holiday than this. I just need to speak with my advisors and see what they have to say about the matter.'

The door resounded with a light knock that brought Shisui out of his thoughts. He turned to face the door as he spoke.

"Come in."

The door opened and the seven advisors walked in. They greeted their leader and then everyone sat down and got to business.

Friday, September 8th at the Hyuuga Compound.

The Elders of the Hyuuga were gathered together. They were finding that becoming one wasn't as bad as they had thought it would have been. Their biggest concern and fear was retaliation from the used to be branch families, but as it turns out. The branch members only want to move on. They had said many times since the new Hokage's decree that they only want to live in peace and grow as a people and clan. They want to show the world what the Hyuuga are truly made of and that they are much stronger and resilient then anyone knew. It took the help of the Hokage and his advisors to persuade the main house to overcome their fear and give it a try and now they were pleasantly surprised and happy.

Without Hirashi there and some of the other more headstrong members of the house. The main house could finally see what the Head of the Uchiha and others have been trying to tell them for years. There was a true clan of the Hyuuga now. One that would rival the Uchiha; yet the Hyuuga knew that it was the help of an Uchiha that was making this all possible. The young Hokage has already begun to impress them in how he managed to persuade them to change. They were impressed with how he was able to deal with Hirashi's wayward organization. What they were the most impressed with however, was the young Uchiha's compassion and care. He wasn't prideful. Everyone knew whether you were of the once main house or branch family that this was an opportunity for the Uchiha to gloat. The new Hokage did no such thing. He was seeing them as citizens of the Leaf and fellow shinobi that would protect the village as much as any of the other clans or even his own.

This was the biggest reason why the Hyuuga decided to embrace the Hokage's ideal whole-heartedly. They were learning from him and his clan that there was no need to be afraid of them or even their own. The Uchiha had a good reason to hate the Hyuuga after all the crap that has happened to them, which was directly and sometimes indirectly caused by the Hyuuga thanks to Hirashi. Instead they were challenging the Hyuuga to become something much more than a clan tied down by their own fears and the need for superiority over others.

Today they would begin passing on to their Head of Clan in training, Neji some of these newly learned lessons. For his part, Neji, was happy that his clan recognized his father's efforts and named him a hero among their clan. Neji vowed that he would work hard to uphold his father's legacy and make him proud.

Little Hinata was doing much better these days. Still, she was struggling in some ways as well. She had learned that her father was a bad man. She couldn't say that she was surprised at this. He could be so hard on their clansmen sometimes. She was so young but she understood some things. She understood that it was wrong to beat and say nasty things to people. She herself had been the victim of her father's anger on more than one occasion. She could say that he scared her, but she loved her father at the same time. He was her father. His death was hard on her yet she felt guilty for being glad that he wouldn't be around anymore. She felt like she was a bad girl. She knew that every child born only had one of each parent. Maybe if you lost yours you could receive another but then again maybe not. She was upset that he wasn't a good man. She had also learned that her father was a bad man to people outside of her clan. This made Hinata sad and feel guilty though she couldn't explain why she felt the guilt part. Only that it was her father that was out and doing these horrible things to other people now. NO one would tell her exactly what he did so she didn't know, but Hinata knew that it couldn't be good. The man wasn't nice to her half the time and even though she tried her hardest to please him. She could see that she was failing.

Her cousin Neji had been named the next Head of Clan and for Hinata, again this was no surprise. She could see for herself that her cousin was stronger than her and her father had told her many times that she would never be as good as him. Near the end of their time as a family, Hirashi had even told her that she would never amount to anything within the clan. These things hurt and stung all the time, but Hinata was determined to get stronger and become a respectable member of her clan. She wanted this for herself. To prove to herself that she wasn't a worthless human being; that she did have some worth as a clan member. The other reason she wanted to do this was for her cousin, Neji. She didn't want him to be embarrassed by her lack of strength. What she didn't know was that Neji didn't see her as weak and worthless. Neji had witnessed some of the treatment that Hinata received on a daily bases and knew that she was strong just to endure it all.

Lastly, the branch families have been walking on a high cloud ever since the decree. At first they all thought that it couldn't happen and that the main house would just refuse the Hokage and leave the village. They feared how much harder their lives would become if this happened, but they were surprised and elated to see that the main house was willing to make the necessary changes to become a much stronger and better clan. The branch decided right then and there that they would let the past go. They knew that they needed to if they ever want to achieve what they dreamed of. Many of them were excited at the prospect of learning the jutsus that were forbidden to them for so long. They couldn't wait to make these jutsus their own and put their own personal spin on them.

All of the Hyuuga clan was received well by the rest of the village as well. They applauded the clan's willingness to change and encouraged them all every time any of them went into the village for any reason.

Tuesday, September 12th

Fugaku had been thinking of his wife and young sons for so long now. He wanted to go out and see them but as the Head of his clan he needed to stay where he was and oversee the construction efforts and the military police, but this forced compliance to remain in the village and serve was beginning to take its toll now. Both of his elder sons noticed his quietness and aloofness for what it was and it was Itachi that suggested to him to write a letter and send it by messenger.

"Father if you can't go to them. Then send them your love in a letter. I know that they would love to hear from you and mother especially. Kakashi can take a picture of you to send as well. It isn't the same as being there in person I know, but this way at least you will be able to say what you need to say and hear from the ones you love the things that only they can tell you."

Fugaku immediately had the picture taken and wrote a letter that very evening.

My dear family, I miss you so much. It feels like several months have gone by since I last saw you and talked with any of you or even held you in my arms. They tell me that the construction is going faster than anyone planned and that it won't be a lot longer before you all will be returning home once more. I'm glad though that I sent you all away. Those clansmen that have volunteered to return were quite shaken up by what they saw here and I can't say that I blame them. The enemy truly hated us and meant to destroy our clan from this world. It makes me sad that we invoked such nasty feelings within others that we didn't even really know. Many have thanked me for sending the clan away in order to save us. I knew that I was making the right decision at the time and I wouldn't have changed it if I had the chance to do it over again. Still I miss you.

I had sent Kakashi and Itachi along at least so that they could see you all and to let you know what was happening here. In turn they told me of Naruto waking up! I'm so happy for you son and I can hardly wait to see you for myself. Be strong and listen to your mother and uncle.

Sasuke, they have told me that you were the one that protected your brother while he was asleep. That's my boy, Great job, Sasuke! I knew that you had it in you, son. Please be careful though not to hurt anyone unnecessarily. I also want you to apologize to the medics. It is the right thing to do, Sasuke. I bet you haven't' done that yet have you? Lol. Naruto, you help you brother since he is backwards on social etiquette. Okay? I'm counting on you.

Tell that brother in law of mine that he better watch his mouth out there. There are children running around, Takeshi! Lol. I miss you brother. I look forward to seeing you again and beating your butt in a spar. Take care of yourself. Your son is doing a great job back here. I can't wait for you to see him in action. He is making our clan proud.

Mikoto, my love, I can't say everything that I want to say to you right now since the children are present but know that I love you so deeply and that I can hardly wait to see you again and show you how much I love you and miss you my love. Please stay strong for our sons and wait for me. We will be back together again soon.

Your husband and father

Fugaku

The letter was short he realized; but he was never very good at expressing his feelings and his younger son, Sasuke was just like him in this regard. Still, Fugaku was glad to have written the letter and he read it twice to make sure that it sounded right. Then he added the picture in the large manila envelope and sealed it. Now it was up to Kakashi to see to it that it went to the messenger and was on its way to the camp.

Wednesday, September 13

The messenger made the trip the next morning and arrived at ten O'clock sharp. The Black Claw was upon him as soon as he got within what they considered the red zone of the invisible line of where the defense would begin. The messenger made no attempt to attack or defend and the leader immediately called his men to stand down. Even though the messenger was clearly from the Leaf because of his uniform and leaf headband, that didn't mean he was who he said he was. There had been a few would be thieves that have heard that a clan was in hiding and that it was mostly women and children. They saw this as a perfect opportunity to try their luck and rob these people blind among other things.

A few knew that the clan came from the Leaf village though none of them knew which clan it was that was in hiding. Still, the Black Claw was faithful to beat down every attempt at getting past them and into the refugee camp. Now the messenger that stood before them stood calm and unaffected by this sudden group of men in front of him.

"We see that you are wearing the leaf headband and uniform of a chunin. However, do you have a signed letter from the Head of Clan?" The leader was careful to not mention which clan the Head was from. This would help prove whether or not the messenger was truly from the leaf and sent by Fugaku.

"Yes, may I reach into my jacket and retrieve the letter?"

"Yes, but do it slowly."

The messenger nodded and very slowly reached into his flak jacket to retrieve the letter that he had been given by Kakashi. He handed it to the leader, who then read it.

"Let him pass. He is legit."

The group moved out of his way and allowed the messenger entrance. The man bowed deeply before taking off for the camp. Once he arrived he was careful to not alarm the clan of his presence by rushing into their mist. Instead he walked up to the nearest member of the clan who was already watching him curiously.

"Hello, may I help you?" The young woman asked. A toddler was standing next to her clinging onto her pants for support.

"Yes, I'm looking for Mikoto and her children. I have a letter here from her husband."

"Oh." She said as she grabbed her child and lifted him up into her arms. "Please follow us."

The messenger again nodded and followed the woman through the camp passing many clansmen along the way. They all greeted him with short nods or cautious smiles. The woman continued to walk along and her son kept looking back at the man following them with curiosity. Soon all three heard before they saw Naruto, who was running and laughing with Sasuke and Shin's children, Keiko, and Kira chasing him. The little boy briefly looked behind him to see where his playmates where and accidently ran into the young woman and her baby.

"Whoa, Naruto, watch where you are going. You can get hurt or hurt someone else like this."

"I'm sorry, lady Uchiha."

Naruto for some reason could never say ma'am and resorted to calling every woman within the clan 'lady Uchiha.' All the women thought it was cute and it always made most of them blush.

"That's okay, Naruto, but um…where is your mother? A messenger is here to give her a letter from your father."

AT this Sasuke perked up and replied.

"She is at our tent cleaning it up. "

"Thank you, Sasuke." The woman turned to look back at the messenger and said. "Come this way, sir."

The man followed the young woman along with Naruto and Sasuke now both following them. The game of tag quickly forgotten in light of the letter. They soon all arrived in front of the tent with both little ones rushing inside and yelling for their mother. Soon enough Mikoto emerged from the tent with her boys in tow.

"Yes?" She said trying to hold in her excitement and worry at the same time.

The young woman stepped back and bowed then left as the messenger stepped forward with the letter.

"Good morning, Mrs. Uchiha. I have been sent to give you this letter from your husband. I am told to wait for a response from you." He said politely.

He gave her the letter and went and sat on the log near the smoldering campfire that earlier was busy cooking breakfast. Mikoto gathered her sons and headed back into the tent to read it in private. They sat around each other and their mother began reading it. When Mikoto came to the part about Naruto waking up. Naruto blushed and then grinned.

"Yep, I can't wait to see you again to father!" He exclaimed.

Mikoto smiled at him and continued on reading. Now when Sasuke came up. She stopped and looked over at her shy, socially inept son. Sauske shrugged his shoulders and then sighed.

"Okay, okay, I will apologize to them. I promise."

Naruto leaned into his brother with that grin still present and said.

"I'll be there for you, Sasuke, just like father asked and besides I know that talking to people isn't easy for you. I'll help you."

"Thanks."

Mikoto then picked back up into the letter while the boys were talking. She knew that her husband would write something that was just meant for her but knew that he wouldn't get carried away with it knowing that their sons were with her. Still, she read ahead to see what he did write and decided that she would mention about her brother and only say that Fugaku said that he missed her. She didn't want the boys to actually hear anything else.

Once the letter was read. Mikoto reached back inside the envelope and pulled out the picture that was there. She wanted to read the letter first before she presented the picture to her boys. She showed the picture to the boys as they crowded close against her to see the picture. There was their father wearing his military police captain's uniform. He was standing in the Uchiha District though, as could be told from the gates in the background. He wasn't standing there alone. Kakashi and Itachi were both in the picture as well. Fugaku was standing in the middle with both of his sons on either side of him. He had an arm draped over each of the boys' shoulders pulling them in close. 'So someone else had taken this photo then.' Mikoto thought as she looked at it. That wasn't the only thing she noticed either. Fugaku looked worn to her. Like he had been carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders for far too long. There was a smile on his face though. One that was warm and one she has missed for some time now. Her sons were smiling back at her and their brothers. Itachi had an ornery look as if knowing that Sasuke would be looking at the photo, While Kakashi had a smile that was warm and kind.

Their siblings looked at the photo and right away Sasuke commented on Itachi's face.

"Look at him…he is so annoying even in a picture. It makes me what to say something stupid and then we would start arguing. Idiot." This was said with a smirk.

I think that father looks tired, momma, and Kashi looks like he misses us."

"Yeah, and what do you think of our other brother?" Sasuke said with a laugh now.

"Uh…I, I …hm…I'm not really sure what to make of Itachi, Sasuke. He is just being Itachi."

"Exactly a jerk! I can't wait to start teasing him when we see him again.'

Mikoto could only chuckle at her sons responses. She decided that it was time to write back quickly since the messenger said he would wait for her to respond. She sent the children out to play again while she went out with some stationary and began writing a letter of her own.

My love, I miss you just as much and can hardly wait for the day we are reunited. I have read the letter to our sons and the responses were comical. Naruto promises to help Sasuke with the apology and yes you were right. Sasuke hadn't given the medics one.

Sasuke was pleased as punch that you praised him for protecting Naruto. He had been so worried that he would fail him and all of us. His family means a great deal to him and he was willing to do whatever it took to keep Naruto safe. Still, I had worried a lot about him. He was almost obsessed with it. No he was obsessed. He was so afraid that he wouldn't be there when Naruto woke up or that if he left to play with the other children that he was betraying us and Naruto.

When Naruto woke up. We were all so very happy and relieved, but Sasuke was even more so. He felt for the first time like he hadn't failed his brother. It really boosted his self confidence in some ways. However, when Kakashi and Itachi had come to visit us. I told them about Sasuke and Kakashi had said that he noticed Sasuke's behavior also and that he would talk to him about it. I'm glad that he did. Honestly, honey, I'm so glad that we adopted those two boys. I have never regretted it. We were able to do so much for them, but they have done so much for us as well. I love them both so much.

I'm sorry to learn of our district though to be honest again, I'm not surprised of the condition it's in. So many people were opposed against us it seemed and for this to have happened to our district just really doesn't shock me. I don't think too many things could shock me these days. Still you did make the right decision in sending us away. Yet, I wait as do all of the remaining clan to return once more to the place that we call home and to be with the ones we love most.

All of us feared for many days for the lives of our brethren. The few messengers that were sent kept telling us such tragic things and we feared that we would never see our loved ones again. None of us cared if we returned to the Leaf or not. We just didn't want to lose any more of our loved ones. We would have gladly gone elsewhere to live.

The picture that you sent was wonderful. The boys and I loved it. Especially, Sauske, who couldn't forgo telling us about the ornery smirk on Itachi's face. Naruto on the other hand, mentioned how tired you looked honey. I had to agree. Please try and get rest at night and don't worry. I and the clan here in the camp are keeping our heads up and waiting for the day that we will return to all of you. I love you. I love you more than any amount of words could possibly say.

Please tell our sons that we miss them both and love them dearly and will wait for their return to guide us home again.

Love always

Mikoto and the boys.

When the letter was finished. Mikoto sent it along with it a picture of her and the boys. The messenger made haste to return with this letter to the receiver as swiftly as possible knowing that he awaited an answer. Two days later on September fifteenth another letter from the same messenger arrived.

The Village through September to October 28th.

Several days passed. The Uchiha family sent letters back and forth for the remainder of the time the clan was in hiding at the camp. Kakashi had written a letter accompanied with a birthday cake. For September fifteenth was his birthday. He was now nineteen years of age. The past year the family had been together. They had celebrated Kakashi's birthday. This year they couldn't. So he sent the little family his birthday cake and a letter filled with all his love.

Itachi had written his own letter filled with so much love and for once a more serious side of himself, but unfortunately that didn't last long as he couldn't resist giving Sasuke a few quick jabs of teasing. The letter that returned to him was full of love too, but with just as much teasing from little brother Sasuke included. This letter was actually framed and on the bedroom wall of Itachi's now completed bedroom.

The men of the family had just moved back into their brand new home on September twenty-third which was Saturday. In fact, the entire block was finished the day before and ready to be moved back into. Some of the houses were once again full of the love and laughter of a family. While some others on the block had only one or two people in them and sadly, others that had no one there at all.

This caused many of the clan that was already there to want the rest of the clan back now. Fugaku met up with the Elders to discuss the situation. They talked about whether or not that they should allow some of the families to return or continue to have them wait in the camp until all of the district's residential homes had been restored. For Fugaku, this was a no brainer. He didn't want them back until all of the residential areas were restored or at the very least most of it. The families that still didn't have homes yet would have to lodge with others and there needed to be sufficient number of houses that could accommodate those families without them. He also didn't want them back yet due to the enormous number of workers in the district. They were everywhere and it would be so easy for a child to kidnapped or someone assaulted in such a high volume of traffic of strangers in their midst. Fugaku never liked to think this way. He wanted to believe that everyone that came was of a good and pure heart, but his protective and reasonable side told him that this wouldn't be the case for everyone that came through the gates of the district.

He made his reasons known and strongly felt. The Elders were in agreement with him. They would take it upon themselves to deliver the news to their clan in a speech that was given in the shrine. No one was happy about the news but all agreed to comply with it. Their Head of Clan had protected them and had never stirred them wrong. So they would honor his request to wait.

More days passed and as they did. The Uchiha District was quickly returning to her former glory. The master builder was able to give a definite date as to when everyone of the clan could return home. This was the news that Fugaku and all of the village had been waiting for. He had given the date of October the twenty-eighth as the move in date. A great sigh of relief went up from the Uchiha clan as they heard the news.

The build continued and soon came to an end. It was time now. It was finally time to bring home the clan and Fugaku once again sent his to eldest sons to go and bring the clan home. It was on a very bright morning on October twenty-eighth that Kakashi and Itachi set out for the camp. A messenger had been sent four days earlier to give the news to the refugee camp and to let them know that it was time to start getting ready to leave. The camp was filled with joy and excitement. Now on the day of the move the clan was ready early. Everyone was up and dressed and fed and had taken down the tents and basically cleaned up the camp site in respect to the Zaizen clan.

Kakashi and Itachi were racing through the forest with such happy hearts. They have waited for this day for so long and now they could finally bring the rest of the clan and their family home. They arrived at ten that morning to find everyone packed and ready to go. After hugging their own family the brother's began to lead the clan home. The Black Claw remained surrounding them all the way until they reached a mile within and then turned back for their own home.

At the gates where the Hokage was there along with his advisors and Fugaku and the rest of their clan was also waiting. Their allies were also present the Heads of each clan. The villagers made up the rest. They lined up on either side of the entrance to the gates to where already cheering as they saw them coming. The Hokage stepped outside the gates and raised both of his arms in greeting.

Kakashi led the group right to him and stopped. Everyone quickly quieted themselves when they saw the Hokage's arms raised.

"Kakashi and Itachi, thank you for bringing the rest of the Uchiha clan home. We welcome all of you back to your rightful place within these gates. My clan and citizens of Konohona, I the Fifth Hokage welcome you home."

Takeshi had been standing near the front of the clan. He saw his son in the garments of a Hokage and tears of pride and joy wetted his eyes. None of them fell and no one would have blamed him if he had. Without thinking, Takeshi went forth and embraced his son. The tears only now falling silently as he spoke.

"Shisui, I love you my son. Even if you had never become the Hokage. If you would have been a member of Anbu your whole life or dropped out of Anbu and become a Jounin in charge of a group of Genin. I would still have loved you and would have still been proud of you my son. Still, you have gone and done something that I thought would not ever happen within our clan. You have gone and done what we could have only dreamed of until now. You have no idea how proud I am of you and yet I feel so humbled to know that it is my son that is now the leader of one of the most respected and powerful hidden villages in the world. You have done me such honor. Thank you my son. Thank you for being born."

Shisui was moved by his father's words. They were genuine as they always were. Whether his father was chewing him out for doing something stupid or when he did something right. His father was always genuine and he had always cared. Shisui embraced his father. There were so many things he wanted to say to him. To say that he thought the world of his father. That the man wasn't a failure in raising him. The most important lessons he learned were from his father and no one else and no else had his back like his father did. He loved his father deeply. There was so much to say but the only thing that would come out was…

"I love you, father." Shisui felt a knot form in his throat. He wanted to cry, but he didn't want too and he wouldn't. He was the Hokage now and there some things that could be shared openly with others and there were things that weren't meant for the public to see and hear except family.

They let each other go only to find that Fugaku had raced ahead to meet up with his own family. The mother of his children and their two youngest sons stood in the forefront almost in shock. He rushed up and hugged his wife and kissed her and he didn't care who all saw him do it. He missed her. He missed her for far too long. They went through everything together and for the first time in their lives they had been separated for such a length of time. True it wasn't years, but it could have just as well have been. The pain was awful but it was over now and Fugaku never wanted them separated again.

The little ones looked and then blushed and turned away. They were happy to see their parents together. Their brother picked them up and hugged them again so that they wouldn't feel awkward anymore and besides they were feeling a little awkward themselves as their parents starting whispering words of love to each other and basically forgot that everyone else was around.

Itachi couldn't help but chuckle and Sasuke gave him a light smack on the back of the head.

"Behave Itachi. This is mother and father you're about to tease about."

Itachi laughed out loud this time.

"You're right little brother. I almost forgot and let myself go that time."

The laugh brought the two love birds out of their own little world. Fugaku then remembered his two youngest sons and went over to hold each one in both of his arms. Kakashi and Itachi gave up their brothers to their fathers waiting arms. A child on either side of his body wrapped in his left and right arms. Fugaku kissed each of them on the cheek and pulled them close.

"I have missed you two so much. I'm so glad to see your awake Naruto and I'm glad that you have kept him safe, Sasuke. You both are such wonderful sons. I have missed your laughter and your play for so long now."

"We missed you father. WE missed you this much." Naruto said and showed his father how much by stretching both of his arms out at sides.

"Wow that is a lot, Naruto." Their father said with a chuckle.

Sasuke didn't want to be left out either and said the first thing that came to mind.

"We love you father very much. Naruto and I never want to be separated from you and our older brother Kakashi ever again."

Fugaku looked at Sasuke with a bit of confusion. By now he should have known.

Their mother and older siblings waited for Sasuke's next line.

"What about your brother Itachi?" Fugaku asked still confused.

"Oh, yeah him too on an occasion." Sasuke said with a grin and looking at his brother Itachi. "We have to have Itachi in small doses. Nobody can stand him for long. He's obnoxious by nature."

This made everyone laugh that heard it.

Shisui wanted to say something as well as bantering was in his blood too, but it was time to get the clan and family home.

"Alright everyone let's go home."

With that the clan began to move forward again with Fugaku carrying both of the little ones in his arms his wife and older sons by his side. His clan was following behind him and where right beside him as they made their way through the village and to the Uchiha District. People threw confetti and shouted cheers the entire route to the district. There many people that could not be in the streets. So they came out of their in town apartments to stand on their balconies to cheer and throw more confetti and some through flowers into the moving throng below them. This continued all the way to the edge of the village. Going down the pathway to their district alone. The Uchiha continued onward and through the gates of the new Uchiha district.

A week later a village celebration was held. It was to honor the community of the Leaf. The Unification Festival began that following Monday in honor of all of the clans and civilians that made up the village that was known as the leaf. The Uchiha made their way to the festival and took part in it, but they had their own new holiday as well. Every year from that time onward the Uchiha clan celebrated the Trial of the clan. A solemn affair at its beginning and ending with a joyous festival of their own. It commemorates the struggle with their enemies and the time that they as a clan were separated and then reunited under the Hokage that was one of their own. They had truly had risen with the sun.

The Uchiha family sat at home after the festivities tired and happy. A contentment that filled them all pleasantly apparent. Kakashi looked over at the rest of the family and thought.

'This is what it means to have family. I could have never been able to do this without them. I couldn't do this without our clan. To think that on that day several years ago, Minato sensei would give me, Naruto my brother to me. How could have I known that at time. That it was only just the beginning. Minato must have known that the Uchiha would come into our lives and give us what he and Kushina weren't able to give us… Thank you, sensei. Thank you, Kushina. Thank you for loving me and loving me and Naruto enough to have the Uchiha come into our lives and save us from a dismal future. I always thought that I had to do it all alone, but you showed me that I was never alone.' A tear had made itself present in the corner of his eye. The rest of the family saw it. Fugaku slid to the end of the couch ready to get up and go to his son's aid.

"Kakashi, son, what is wrong?"

"Nothing, father. I was just remembering Minato and Kushina and I realized that this was part of what they had hoped would have happened from the very beginning when they gave me Naruto."

Everyone sat up straighter and looked concerned. Kakashi just gave them a small smile as he said.

"I thought I was alone and had to do this alone, but I realize that I was never alone and I was never meant to build a future for myself and Naruto alone. They knew this…they knew this all along. Somehow they knew that we needed to meet and be with all of you. You would give us what Minato and Kushina wouldn't be able to give and no one else would give."

Kakashi smiled a brighter smile. He was seeing what he never had dreamed of a long time ago. Everything that this family had promised him came true. They went through one of their darkest hours as a family. His father had told him that they would get through this together. When Kakashi had thought that, the only choice he had was to run with Naruto. He had a family. He had a clan. A clan that went through hell for him and Naruto. He would never forget it. He didn't ever want to forget it. This gift that the Uchiha had given him was so precious. The emotion was deep but Kakashi couldn't hide it all.

The family sensed this mood and they gathered around the eldest son. Fugaku was the one to embrace Kakashi as he stood up from his seat.

"We love you both dearly, my son. You and Naruto have been and will always be loved. Never forget that."

Fugaku stood back and everyone was looking at Kakashi with smiles. The little ones came and grabbed hold of each of his hands.

"We are family and that's how it's going to stay." A serious Itachi replied. Our family and clan would go through a lot more than this to protect you and Naruto, big brother."

"Yeah, I know. This is all so much more than I could have ever dreamed of back then. You were right father. The first time I went through something like this with Sakumo, we didn't have anyone. We had no clan left to help us either. When the village and even the Land of Fire attacked us. It was with horrible results. Then you came and I feared that a similar thing would happen again and I didn't want the people that I had come to love to be hurt. So I was going to run with Naruto and leave this village behind for good."

Kakashi shuddered at the thought of what he and Naruto could have lost, if he had not listened to Fugaku that fateful night. Looking up again at everyone. A tear fell from the corners of his eyes. He couldn't stop it and he found that it was alright. This was something else he had learned from living with a family that cares for you. It's okay to show how you feel. Gathering himself together he said.

"You have given us a new start and held us up when we faltered at times. You shared with us so much and had done so much for us. The clan taking us in and suffering so many things because of the choice they made alongside you. I will never forget. Always remember that I will always love you. From the very bottom of my heart now and forever."