And here we qare, chapter 7.
Sorry for the late update, but as always life and kids diverted my focus. This is more ofa filler chapter, with the next two to three chapters having quite a bit of content and story progression in that its goingto set up a lot of stuff I got planned.
I am taking liberties with such things, like the Sharingan and stuff, mainly to fit my purposes, you will see what I mean below.
Any who, I think I got Naruto's skill set finalised, Sasuke's and the third member of team 7 who will remain I am excited for as I felt this individual had so much potential but it got wasted.
Now, on with the show.
Chapter 7:
Mikoto Uchiha was nervous. The sheer excitement when Itachi revealed what she had done for her two days ago had been met with annoyance and worry. Those feelings melted into excitement as soon as Itachi stated that Gai would allow Mikoto to meet her godson for the first time.
The following day, a phone call between Gai and Mikoto took place. It was uncomfortable talking to the young man who she had only a couple of interactions with while pretendingwith in the past. The phone call yesterday had left her emotionally drained. But feeling hopeful. It was an enlightening conversation to say the least.
Gai agreed for Mikoto and Mikoto alone to meet Naruto, the father deciding it would be best this way for various reasons. As much as Itachi wanted to go, one of those reasons was Gai didn't want a three year old showdown between his son and the younger Uchiha heir that could potentially spoil this first meeting.
There were more reasons Gai had explained, not that Mikoto minded. She was too excited to frown or argue, not that she would argue considering Gai could just as easily go back on his word. The two parents agreed to meet at the park the day before Itachi and Might Gai were to set out on their journey.
The thirty five year old woman was going to do her best to make a good impression on the father and son, she desperately wanted to have a relationship with the boy. Not to mention, she knew how much Itachi cared about the teenaged father; she didn't want to do anything to spoil that relationship.
If anything, she wanted to help the friendship bloom beyond friendship. Never had Itachi talked about one person beyond Shisui as she did with the raven-haired parent. And, though Itachi would deny it, Mikoto had s suspicion Itachi somewhat fancied Gai, she may not even know it but the mother knew her daughter very well.
Grinning to herself as the park came into view, Mikoto Uchiha's gait came to a stop as she easily spotted the only red-haired child dressed in blue shorts and a black t-shirt playing in the sandbox.
'Kushina…' she thought to herself upon seeing Naruto's red mane. Mikoto felt her eyes beginning to tear up at seeing Naruto for the first time. The sorrow and guilt, the regret for not protecting the child's family returned like a vengeful tornado, but along with it a sudden love and desire to protect Naruto trailed her guilt like a comet's tail.
On the park bench Gai sat, he was just as nervous as the Matriarch of the clan he hated. He hadn't ever really met Mikoto Uchiha; as such ehe had long ago stereotyped her without getting to know her. Not that he had ever felt the need to meet her properly.
For the last twenty-four hours since Itachi and Mikoto had called him to hammer out where they would meet; Gai had begun to fret over his caving in to his friend's request. Was this the right decision? Naruto didn't know Mikoto, and she in turn didn't know his son. Would she reveal things he didn't want Naruto to know yet? Sarutobi's pupil also felt stink because his boy's grandparents could only communicate via mail, never signing their name except for 'grandma and grandpa'.
His biological family were dead or wandering the world on their quest, and here he was about to let someone who was not bound by blood to Naruto. He recognised how unfair that was, and he was beginning to feel guilt over his decision. In the end his honor won out. He had given his friend his word, and Might Dai had raised his son to always keep his word no matter what.
So here he was, in the park which wasn't too crowded about to meet the clan Matriarch officially for the first time. Scratching at his beard; he watched his son playing. Gai chuckled; Naruto was pretending to be a dinosaur attacking the sand castle he had built. As he watched his son, he noticed in the distance a splendid looking woman approach the park, as she got closer Gai immediately recognised her.
'Heh, so that is where Itachi gets her looks from' Gai mused, he could easily see Itachi in Mikoto Uchiha and now knew where the eighteen year old beauty got her looks from. Not that Gai was one to leer at women, but he had to admit the women in the Uchiha clan were quite beautiful and regal in how they acted and dressed.
Gai felt underdressed in his jeans and green t-shirt with normal everyday sandals compared to the Sharingan clan Matriarch. Itachi and Sasuke's mom wore a cream spring dress and a beige blouse with a sunhat. Not overly clothed; but enough to show Mikoto was a woman of standard. He watched her stop suddenly and home in on his son, a protectiveness engulfed Gai that made his muscles coil. He had to force himself to relax, and instead quietly watched Mikoto. He could just her expression, hands clasping as she brought one to her mouth. Gai frowned, watching the emotions flicker through her countenance like an advert on television.
Collecting his thoughts before standing up, Gai had put his big boy underwear on today, knowing he would need to approach this morning with an open mind and not that of his usual underwear consisting of various colors of anti Uchiha.
"Lady Uchiha." He greeted loud enough to draw the older parent from her thoughts.
Turning her head sharply, Mikoto blinked and lowered her hand. She bowed politely. "Might Gai." She greeted kindly. "Thank you for agreeing to this. You have no idea what this means to me."
Blushing at the oddness of being thanked by Mikoto, Gai rubbed at his neck and chuckled. "Yosh, you're welcome. I cannot begin to understand what you must have gone through the last three years."
Shaking her head, Itachi's mother gave a soft smile and gave Gai a once over with her eyes. 'oh my, I think I understand now why my daughter is unknowingly becoming smitten with Gai. He is very pleasing to the eyes and voice, his beard suits him.'
"It has been a trying time, I think for all of us. Don't think I take this lightly, my daughter says you are quite protective over your son."
Shifting his footing, Gai shrugged, how this woman referred to Naruto as his 'son' was not lost on him. A part of him appreciated not being reminded he was an adoptive father. Turning his head to watch his boy slid down the metal slide, Gai nodded.
"He is my world, I would move heaven and heart if it meant keeping him happy."
Turning her own head to look at Naruto, Mikoto kept her smile demure.
'That is what being a parent is all about. I would do anything to keep my girls happy. Speaking of, I have to say this, Sasuke was not pleased she was not coming to the park today, nor was Itachi."
Raising his left brow, Gai lifted the corner of his mouth. "I can imagine, Sasuke is quite intelligent for her age, if not a little demanding but which child is not unselfish at this age? My own son dislikes sharing his toys and is quite vocal about it."
Mikoto laughed, face lighting up with joy. "I find it quite amusing how much of an impression Naruto has made on my recluse daughter. I have never heard a three year old call another three year old a 'butt head'."
Gai grinned then motioned for Mikoto to follow him to the bench he had been sitting at, he waited until she was seated before he sat down. Thanking Gai, a silence ensued as the father and mother collected the words they needed to express to each other.
"Lady Uchiha." Gai began, only for Mikoto to frown and hold up her hand.
"Gai, please call me by my first name. I am no higher ranking than you. We are equals as such I would like to be treated as your equal if possible."
Blinking, the young father paused and then laughed loudly. "Yosh, now I understand where Lady Itachi has inherited her discontent when I constantly use an honorific with her name."
Mikoto joined in on the laughter, but not as boisterous. "Yes, my eldest daughter has ranted once or twice about how you refuse to simply call her by her name."
Keeping his grin up, Gai shrugged. "It is fun annoying her, yosh she is so guarded most of the time. To see her get annoyed, or when she scowls is a welcomed relief to her stoicism. I have lost count how many times she has reprimanded me."
Nodding, Mikoto inwardly laughed. 'So he annoys my daughter on purpose? Oh my, what other surprises am I in for today?' she thought pleasantly. Indeed, it was amusing to see her eldest perfectly mannered come undone and rant and rave over something Shisui or Gai had done to annoy her. She hated how her daughter kept her emotions in check all the time, a perfect lady Uchiha that couldn't be allowed to feel.
Gai had no clue he had just further endeared himself to the mother by his statement.
"As much fun as teasing my children are. How are you feeling about your mission with my daughter?"
"Lad-." Stopping himself, Gai shook his head. "I mean, Mikoto. I appreciate the question and why you are asking. But let us cut straight to the roots of why we are here. I mean no offence, but I have just but a few hours to finish finding a babysitter, sorting out what gear I would need and then spending what rest of the time I have with my son."
Letting her smile fade into an expression Itachi usually wore, Mikoto nodded.
"Very well then. But, know I am more than willing to lend a thought or two if you need an impartial opinion."
NARUTO
Naruto was having a blast playing in the sandbox with his toy samurai and ninjas. Naruto loved playing outside, be it in the sun or rain, forest or park he just loved the outdoors. The sights and smells and sounds charmed him, they beckoned him. He hated being cooped up inside, he disliked watching television though he did like this cool samurai cartoon, but that was the exception.
There were many things of course he didn't understand. Like why he couldn't tell people about his ears or tail. He didn't understand why he could growl or bark where other kids would cry or scream. He didn't understand how he could hear or smell things other people couldn't. His dad had explained that he had superpowers, super powers were cool but had to be kept a secret.
Not that he focused much on his ears or tail. He was usually too occupied by trying to catch rabbits, or playing with his dad or aunties and uncles and he loved when they played with him, especially uncle Shi-shi he was always good fun. Though his daddy did often get mad at his uncle when his uncle would say a no-no word.
Grabbing his toys he placed them all along the sand castle he made before he pretended to be a rampaging dinosaur bent on destroying the great castle and its army. A swipe of his hand sent a few soldiers careening away as he began to fight against his plastic army.
"Naruto my boy, come here for a moment." His dad called to him. Looking up, Naruto stood and raced over to his hand. He slowed though when he noticed a woman who looked kind of like Tachi sitting next to his dad. A tentative sniff of the air, she smelled like Tachi and that big jerk Sasuke. Tilting his head he stood a couple of feet from his dad and the stranger, his blue eyes focusing in on the woman.
"Naruto, this is Itachi's and Sasuke's mother, Mikoto Uchiha."
Giving Gai a quick glance to Mikoto, the father nodded his consent. Sliding of the bench, the Matriarch slid down to her knees and held out her hand to Naruto.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Naruto."
Naruto didn't reciprocate the invite, instead he leaned in and took a few sniffs of her; proceeded by circling Mikoto by climbing on the bench before returning to her front. Mikoto knew the action for what it was, Kushina often did the same to strangers.
"Where you hiding the stick?" Naruto finally asked, looking expectantly for his answer.
"The stick? I am sorry, Naruto what do you mean?" slightly confused, but eager to hear why the child would ask such a question. Though, she did have a slight incling as to the answer to such an odd query.
Gai felt a sense of dread building within, he had an idea of where his son's question was going. After all he had asked Itachi the same thing in the past. He just hoped Mikoto's response was the same as Itachi's.
While he waited, he thought back to their conversation which took a good few minutes to go over. He had emptied out his concerns over Mikoto being in Naruto's life. His worry ranging from her betraying the trust he was giving, to her trying to force a relationship should his son not be receptive to her. To his concern over his son's identity being revealed and a myriad of other fears that wouldn't stop rolling from his tongue.
Fugaku's wife listened and remained quiet, letting Gai explain how and what he was feeling. Once he was finished, she looked directly to him and had sworn she would never bring harm to Naruto and she would protect him. She assured Gai she wanted to be Naruto's friend but would not force anything and explained if Gai felt threatened in any way she would not contact him or his son again.
This led to Gai explaining the markings his son had, a cleverly disguised illusion seal that hid his kitsune features. Mikoto was hopeful she could see her godson's ears and tail one day. She had loved Kushina's bushy and soft tails.
Naruto grinned; it was the sort of grin that Gai was learning too quickly what it meant. His hand was already pawing at his face when his son happily chirped.
"Sasuke gots a stick up her butt which is why uncle Shisui says she is so mean. Tachi doesn't have a stick up her butt, so I thoughts you had a stick up your butt."
"Naruto…what have I told you about asking that question?"
The boy responded happily. "That only Uchiha have sticks up their butts?"
Mortified, Gai alarmingly looked to the Uchiha woman, already about to apologise when Mikoto beat him to it.
"Oh dear, no, I had the stick removed from my 'butt' along time ago." She responded good naturedly, casting a gleaming eye to Gai, Mikoto nearly laughed when he mouthed 'I'm sorry" to her. The father wasn't wrong nor was her godson, her clan did have a quite a few snobbish lot. She was a little appalled though at the language and how Naruto knew such things; but then she remembered Itachi one day saying how bad of an influence her nephew was on Naruto.
Perhaps she would visit Shisui and remind him to watch his language around her daughters and godson.
The rest of the morning was spent with the Matriarch playing with Naruto in the sand and asking him all sorts of questions. Like what kind of food he liked, what his favorite color was which, revealed that Naruto, like foxes, was red-green color blind when he asked what color was red. A fact that Gai didn't even know. But made a note to get checked out next time his son had a doctor's appointment.
The Matriarch hadn't minded pretending to be a monster attacking his sand castle or pushing Naruto on a swing while Gai watched on. It was turning out to be a good morning, and Mikoto had endeared herself to Naruto. Calling his son over for lunch, Gai offered Mikoto a sandwich which she graciously accepted.
Noting the time, it was about time to wrap up this meeting. Assessing how the morning went, Gai felt this was a success and his concerns rested upon Mikoto's vow to not do anything to hurt or put his child in danger.
"Yosh, Lady Mikoto." Gai spoke up, grinning at the look Mikoto shot him with. It was fun to rile people up, no wonder Kakashi pissed people off so much. Glancing down to his son, Gai had an epiphany while watching Kushina's guardian play with his son. He had misjudged Mikoto, he was still reserved due to her being an Uchiha, but he did not dislike her because of her being one.
He couldn't say in the span of one morning he fully trusted her, he would need to see the Hokage and ask if the Hokage could post a couple of Anbu guards around his house. If the Hokage agreed, he would feel reassured in leaving Naruto in Mikoto's care. So, he vocalised his thoughts.
"I cannot say I trust you one hundred percent solely because we just officially met." Gai began, trying his best to carefully not insult the woman, but he didn't want to lie either. "If anything happens to him while you watch him, I swear Mikoto I will hunt you down."
A bit miffed over the threat, but understanding the father was just being cautious. As taught to her by being a kunoichi, Mikoto Uchiha had learned to take what victories she could. She didn't like the idea of being watched by her former post. But, if being spied on meant earning this man's trust so she could have a relationship with her godson, then she would agree to his condition.
"I understand Gai, know this, you have a friend and ally in me. If you need anything please let me know."
Maybe, just maybe there was hope that the arranged marriage agreement she had in secret with Kushina could still be honored if she played her cards right. And just maybe she could be called Naruto's godmother one day. Wisely, she would not broach such a subject, not with her fledgling relationship with father and son just beginning to blossom.
This didn't stop the idea of trying to push Itachi toward Gai though. So far, next to Shisui, Gai was the only one who Itachi truly spoke about. Be it annoyance coloring her tone, or a fondness that her child wasn't aware she had for Gai and Naruto. Either way, these two were able to bring Itachi out of her shell, even for just a little while.
With that in mind, Mikoto once more thanked Dai's son, and pulled from her clothing some pieces of candy which immediately ensnared Naruto's sweet-tooth. Laughing at how the child eagerly accepted, Mikoto left the two with an optimistic and grateful filled heart.
NARUTO
"Are you certain of this, Ferret?" Hiruzen's gravely voice cut through the silence in his office.
The Anbu nodded crisply, under his mask his eyes held a seriousness to them, not that Danzo or the Hokage could see. For as laid back as Shisui was, once he slipped the mask on his disposition changed entirely. Gone was the laid back, carefree uncle, and friend, as if the mask held a personality that took control of those who donned the porcelain, Ferret was all business, all serious.
"Absolutely, I am not sure how much either of you know about the Sharingan. But our 'eyes' have two pre-requisites to be unlocked."
Danzo hummed, hand palming his cane in thought. "Do elate, boy." He ordered, though the command could be seen as harsh, Ferret knew Danzo was intrigued. Shifting his head to look at the Hokage, the village leader nodded.
"The first is one must be able to use their chakra. We all have chakra, we are born with it and like our limbs it grows with us. But having chakra and using it, as both of you are aware is very different. One must be able to channel chakra through their entire body." Ferret explained, pausing to let both men process his words. "The second requirement is the trickier of the two. One must be put under physical and emotional duress."
"How much stress, Ferret?" the Sarutobi clan head asked, he had an idea due to his boundless knowledge, but that didn't mean he was all knowing.
"Life or death, one must be pushed to the brink, to have their body and senses pushed to the absolute limit, the desire to survive. Or someone they care about about is about to die or having died. It is why more times than not my clansmen unlock their Sharingan on the battlefield."
Grunting, Danzo cast a gaze to Hiruzen before speaking his mind. "And what does this have to do with your findings so far?"
"Because, I have worked tirelessly over the last two days to confirm who in my clan has had their Sharingan recorded as being activated."
"And you are bringing this to our attention so soon, why?" Hiruzen asked, feeling confused, he knew he was missing something. Otherwise, he doubt his Anbu would be bringing this up.
"Because so far, my research shows my aunt as having the Mangekyo Sharingan, but its her abilities that interests me."
"Get to the point, Ferret. We do not have all day for you to speak so cryptically." Danzo commanded, feeling his patience waning.
Itachi's cousin nodded. "The Sharingan, or the normal Sharingan has three tomoe when matured. The first heightens the processing power of the brain and the nerve endings connected to our eyes. This allows us to perceive things at a quicker rate and with more clarity. Sort of like slowing down time. The second tomoe allows us to memorise jutsu or techniques. The third tomoe gives the user the power of hypnosis."
"We know this, boy. What're you getting at?"
Nodding to his commander, Ferret continued. "Yes, I know. But, what you may not know is each individual who has the Sharingan is not equally skilled with each tomoe. You see, the first tomoe is a defence mechanism, the second is offence and third is a hybrid of the two. For example, I am not highly skilled in copying jutsu, but I am quite skilled with the first and third parts of my dojutsu. It is why I can use the Body flicker in rapid succession."
Taking another puff on his pipe, Ferret's theory seemed logical now that he thought about it. He personally fought with a group of Uchiha against an enemy force. And recalling their strengths, and weakness now, he could now appreciate the differences between their strengths and weaknesses.
"Continue, Ferret. Your theory is proving interesting." The clan head ordered.
"This is the theory part, and will require me to read up each clansmens' reports, mission reports and such. But, my theory and this is supported by how I unlocked my Sharingan, is this. I was badly wounded when escorting a princess out of her castle with Dog. I felt the sheer determination to not fail my mission and to help Dog and the said princess. That will to succeed, and my battered body helped me in unlocking my Sharingan. I wanted to protect people when I unlocked it."
Narrowing his single eye, Danzo tapped his cane with his index finger as both he and his old friend pondered over what Ferret was saying.
"And if the person who unlocked their Sharingan, say wanted vengeance or had a desire to kill the enemy?" the warhawk asked, but his gut told him his answer.
"I think they would have a stronger pull to the offensive capabilities to our eyes. I think that being related to my ancestor, Izumi, is not enough. The Mangekyo would need to be unlocked because one wants to protect. After all, when you think about Izumi being the priestess to the Nine-tails, Mito Senju. And, my aunt being the priestess to Kushina." Ferret explained and paused to catch his breath before continuing.
"They have one common aspect, their Sharingan leaned I believe leaned towards protecting versus offensive and they both activated it not because wanting to crush their enemy, but to protect. Mikoto once told me how she took a kunai to her stomach for Kushina, which was how she unlocked her Sharingan."
Both men veterans looked to each other, Ferret's theory was both plausible and made a lot of sense. While it didn't help in tracking down their culprit it did shed light on the mysteries behind the Sharingan and its unknown origin. Furthermore, if this was true, than that meant if the Uchiha were aware of the two different types of Sharingan, then they had kept the Hokages in the dark.
"Tobirama-Sensei, now that I think about it Danzo, did mention that Madara's Mangekyo was frighteningly powerful, but that Izumi's Mangekyo was the only thing that could stand up to Madara's eyes. I thought he was joking." Hiruzen stated.
"Hm, I wonder if the First knew? Just how powerful are the Uchiha clan?" Danzo asked aloud.
Nobody answered, either they were too afraid to or their thoughts were taking their attention. Thinking about it further, Sarutobi felt his brow crease deeply. Just what other secrets could the Uchiha clan be hiding from him? And if someone did have eyes powerful enough to enslave Kushina, hw doubt he was strong enough to stop the person should they attack again. Sarutobi sighed, he would needto increase his training it seemed.
Turning to Danzo, he sat his pipe down and rest his elbows on his desk and threaded his fingers.
"I want you to get every mission areport on each member who has the Sharingan. I want this theory proven. It doesn't shed light on our attacker, but it does narrow down the suspects of who could actually be capable of subduing Kushina. Also, Ferret, I have received complaints from civilians and even shinobi being refused access to goods only your clan deals with. I fear your clan is becoming distant with the village because of me rejecting their requests."
"Hn, you want me to look into the complaints and see if they have merit?"
The Third Hokage nodded. "Yes, Fugaku has failed to come to the last two council meetings despite being summoned. I fear a rift between your clan and our village is growing and I would like to know why. I admit I'm not rejecting their requests out of spite, but out of practicality. But I do fear they are beginning to take my decisions as an attack on them.
"Eh, leave it to me boss. Though I am can't promise I will find anything to help you out."
Standing up, Danzo bowed before turning to Ferret. "As you wish, Hiruzen. Rest assured by the end of the week I will have our theory either confirmed or dismissed. Come Ferret we have work to do."
Wishing his friend and Anbu luck, Sarutobi sighed when his office door was shut. It was only the afternoon and already he felt tired. The more Ferret or Danzo reported to him the more tired he became.
'The question is, if the Uchiha are involved then what is their motive? Why attack their own home and kill the Fourth Hokage? Are they jealous? Did we scorn them and they want revenge? Minato was picked for the Fourth Hokage over Fugaku, perhaps this whole debacle is for revenge?'
Glancing down to a folder he had been reviewing before being interrupted, Hiruzen Sarutobi wondered what would be the proverbial match to the powder keg before things escalated and a civil war broke out between the ancient clan and the Hokage.
A scary thought that he dreaded the answer to because Sarutobi wasn't sure what he could do to stop such this mess. If the Uchiha clan did have someone powerful enough to control Kushina and to push Minato to his limits, then how would he defeat such a foe? The last three years had been fruitful, he had regained much of his vigor and strength from his prime years. But no amount of training can turn back time and his full strength would never return.
A scary thought turned terrifying at having a shinobi who wielded such power as an enemy. Thankfully a knock on his door interrupted his musings.
"Come in."
Sarutobi's secretary poked her head inside. "Lord Hokage, Might Gai is here to see you. Is now an okay time?"
Nodding, Hiruzen already felt his spirits lighten. Gai was a welcomed visit on any day. He was proud of how far the young man had come in the last three years. From emotionally crippled to a bright and optimistic pupil. Sarutobi smiled.
"Of course, send him in."
NARUTO
Climbing the two stories to reach the Hokage's office was always a unique experience. Each visit was unique in its own way. Not because of what conversation he may have with his master, but because of all the people coming and going. This building always seemed to be abuzz with activity, much like a honeybee hive. The workers ran in all directions for all sort of reasons.
Seeing the different people intrigued Gai, not to mention his son considering all the different smells and odours. No longer did he walk these halls with dread like he did three years ago, instead he confidently approached a man who had become like a surrogate father to him and grandpa to Naruto. As always, the busy secretary who made the Hokage's job so much easier greeted him and his son kindly.
"Ah Gai, come to see the Hokage?"
Nodding politely despite the obvious answer to her question. "Yosh, I hope we are not intruding."
"Not at all, his last meeting just ended. Give me a moment and I will let the Hokage know you're here."
Nodding, he picked his son up when Naruto began to reach for a stapler. The last thing he needed as his son to hurt himself, or staple something that didn't need stapling. Gai chuckled, he blamed Shiranui and Anko for Naruto's love of pointy and dangerous objects. The amount of times Naruto stole Genma's senbon and proceed to stab his uncle with the said needles always made everyone laugh. One would think the medic would have learned not to keep his senbon on him when Naruto was around.
"Daddy, put me down." Naruto whined and wiggled in his father's hold.
"Heh, keep dreaming my boy." The father chuckled.
Turning his gaze down the hall that lead to the Hokage's office. Gai reflected on his meeting with Itachi and Sasuke's mother. All in all it went well, he thought. She heard his concerns, addressed them and reassured him but not overly so that would make him worried if she was promising to just promise. He still had his reservations, but with no other babysitting options, and fearing if a civilian babysitter found out about his son, Mikoto was the only choice he had. At least he knew where she lived, and hopefully the Hokage would lend an Anbu to him since the Anbu knew who Naruto was.
Ideally he would prefer one of his friends, but he remembered his friends had their own lives to run, and were also kunoichi and shinobi in service to a shinobi village. Just like he was in service to the Leaf village. Plus, Gai knew that his duty to the village came first, even before his son. The day he tied his headband around his brow years ago he swore to put his village above his own needs. Albeit he had altered his pledge to mirror that of Kakashi's, he would never abandon a friend and comrade.
Kakashi and his ideals, he would pass on to the pouting child he held onto like a football. He already had plans to pass on Kakashi's legacy onto the son she never got to hold and know That is where Gai was so excited for Naruto to grow up just a little bit more before he began his boy's training. To pass on the Goken, Mu no Ken, the Sarutobi Shorinji Kempo and Kung fu styles. Maybe Shisui could help teach Naruto the Senju kenjutsu and Hatake Kenjutsu schools of swordsmanship, that is after he pounded Shisui into the ground for not telling him he was Anbu sooner, consequences be damned!
Returning to the present when the Hokage's secretary returned giving him the all clear to go in. he tucked Naruto tightly under his arm and hauled his son off to see his pseudo grandfather.
Knocking on the door, Gai waited until given permission to enter. As soon as Naruto saw his grandpa, he shouted in excitement and managed to wiggle out of the hold his dad had on him and raced over to the Third.
Grinning, the Hokage stood up to receive Naruto midjump. "Ah my boy, how good it is to see you two." The old man crooned and caught his grandson. "How're the two of you doing?"
Shutting the door, Gai laughed as Naruto managed to climb onto the Third's back and draped his body like a fur shawl. "We good, missed ya grandad." Naruto answered.
Taking a seat, Hiruzen laughed and sat Naruto on his desk as Gai took a chair.
"As he said, our youth and vigor is as strong as a raging river. Ever full of excitement and blooming like a wildflower." Gai indicated with his eyes to his son.
Hiruzen smiled. "I am glad to hear. Goodness you are getting big Naruto."
Nodding, Naruto chatted excitedly about how he made a new friend today which piqued the Third Hokage's interest. "She is very nice, and smells nice too. And she dun got a stick up her butt like Sasuke."
Chuckling, Hiruzen adjusted his hues to look at Gai for clarification on just who this person was.
"Heh, would you believe me if I said Mikoto Uchiha?"
Without giving anything away, Hiruzen hummed and handed his hat to Naruto to play with. "Oh? Care to elaborate on how she has become friend's with Naruto?" the veiled command was stated politely enough but Gai detected the immediate demand for an answer.
So, Gai spent ten minutes explaining Itachi's visit, her request, her reveal of her being in Anbu and Mikoto's affiliation with Kushina and how Itachi wanted her mother to be given the chance to have a relationship with his son. Down to him asking Mikoto to babysit.
By the time he finished, Gai felt his throat dry up and his body become tense as he waited for the still smiling Hokage who was playing with the hat and Naruto to respond. Though side tracked, Naruto's father knew the Hokage heard every word he said and was probably gauging how to best to respond.
"Well, that is quite the little story. How do you feel about Mikoto, especially when it concerns your son?" Sarutobi asked.
Sighing, the young tilted his head back in thought. "I am mixed, Itachi is a good friend. And I believe she trusts her mother has nothing but good intentions. Yosh, but I cannot help but feel guarded around her mother. By the way, please do not reprimand Itachi for revealing she is Anbu. She came to me, and broke down in tears knowing she could have ended our friendship. I trust Itachi has only my son's best interest at heart."
Nodding, Hiruzen did ponder if he should reprimand her. Anbu were supposed to keep their identity a secret. Deciding he would scold her, but refrain from any formal punishment. After all, how could he punish a young woman who was trying to help their mother?
Making a silly face at Naruto, causing the village's secret to giggle.
"Granda, why you got big black spot on your face?"
Hiruzen blinked then boomed with laughter as Gai shook his head, cheeks flaming up. "Because I doodled on myself with a marker." Hiruzen answered.
"Oh..." Naruto said, and tilted his head as he pondered on something. "I saw this really old lady one day, she painted her legs with blue lines."
Blinking, the Hokage looked to Gai for clarification of what the boy meant.
Sighing, Gai shook his head but grinned ruefully. "She had vericose veins. Naruto thought she drew on her legs."
The office nearly rattled with the resounding thunder that was the Hokage's laughter. Not knowing why his grandpa was laughing, Naruto decided to join in and giggle anyways.
"Oh my boy, you are too much." Hiruzen wheezed once he managed to catch his breath and still his laughing. Naruto grinned and put the Hokage's hat on. "I look like you now grandpa."
It was days like these, and moments like this that Sarutobi lived for. It was why he was the Hokage, to protect the next generation. Such innocence was a wondrous thing to bask in and behold, it should be a crime robbing a child of such purity.
"Naruto, how about we go and see if Kimiko has some toys or treats for you while I talk to your father?" Hiruzen asked the boy. "If that is okay with him?"
Gai nodded his consent, not that he could overrule the Hokage. The old man walked his grandson to his secretary and asked if she would watch Naruto while he spoke to Gai. Returning to his chair, Hiruzen turned a calculating gleam to Gai.
"Speak candidly Gai, if you have reservations then why agree to Mikoto meeting Naruto, and why ask if she will baby sit him?"
A peculiar and thoughtful look upon his face Gai glanced toward the large window that gave a beautiful view of the four Hokage statues nestled in a wondrous grove. A sacred and majestic area that was considered holy ground considering each deceased Hokage's ashes were buried under the statues.
"I don't trust her, and I don't just mean because of today's meeting. How can I trust a woman who was supposed to keep the Fourth's family safe?" Gai asked, his voice tinted with emotion as memories of yesterday were drudged up. "Besides the obvious, Mikoto is the safest guarantee as all of my friends are busy or out of the village."
Turning his onyx eyes to the Hokage Gai sighed. "It is why I was going to ask if you could allow me an Anbu to guard Naruto while I am gone."
Hiruzen listened quietly, resting comfortably in his chair with his hands folded in his lap. Keenly aware that Gai didn't answer his question but skirted around the egdes like a frozen lake ready to collapse. Licking the inside of his mouth, Hiruzen chuckled.
"You ask something of me, my student. But yet you have not answered my question. Do I need to repeat myself?"
Blinking, Gai dropped his gaze, slightly embarrassed. He had hoped what he said was enough to deter the conversation down a different road. He really didn't want to answer, not because he couldn't. Oh no, the father didn't answer because he couldn't give an honest answer when he didn't know the exact reason why. At first, Gai though it was because of his friendship with Itachi. But, since meeting Mikoto he had begun reassessing his conversation with the young heiress.
Was it because she had shed tears and he hated seeing a woman cry? He triedthought about that reason, but when it failed to reassure him that he made the right call, he tried the next reason he could think of. And each reason from being friends, to Naruto's needed his godmother, to Kushina's friendship with the mother. But each reason failed to convince himself.
Making a face, Gai bowed his head. "Lord Hokage, I cannot give to you a reason that would satiate your curiosity for I cannot figure out why I had agreed. Yosh, like a man with no direction in life I am befuddled. I have tried to think of reasons why I agreed, but my mind is as empty as a dried up riverbed."
Hiruzen kept his grin at bay, he had an idea as to why his student took such a big gamble. His student would probably deny it and it was his job to help his pupil along, wasn't it?
"Itachi is a fine young woman, skilled and loyal to a fault. Strong and proud, wouldn't you say?"
Gai frowned, but aquiesced. "Yosha, she is passionate and a good friend and she is good to my son which I appreciate."
The Third Hokage grinned. "And she is quite unpleasant to the eyes, wouldn't you say? The trap was set, and the Hokage wasn't left waiting for Gai to bite. The young man scowled and shook his head.
"I beg to differ sir, Itachi Uchiha is as beautiful as a pale, full moon under a starry night."
The clanhead waited for Gai to realise what he had just blurted out. It took a long twenty seconds, and it was quite a comical scene to watch. First Gai's eyes widen slowly and his mouth and jaw unhinged, doing a splendid job of a gaping fish and his cheeks blossomed.
Sarutobi grinned, not bothering to look smug as Gai tried to backtrack. "YOSH. I MEAN, I." Gai yelled and stumbled over his own words. "i AM MOST UNYOUTHFUL FOR THINKING SUCH THOUGHTS ABOUT ONE OF MY FRIENDS. I MUST RUN TEN LAPS AROUND THE VILLAGE AND THEN FIVE ON MY HANDS AS PUNISHMENT."
Sarutobi had thought this side of Gai, his loudness was a thing of the past. He hadn't heard such nonsense come from his student since he became a father. It was endearing, to see the old Might Gai still residing in the more mellow man that he was today. Well, it would be endearing if his ear drums weren't aching from Gai's megaphone like voice.
Plucking his ear with his pinky, the Third Hokage chuckled. "While in my presence, never do that again, Gai. I am old, wrinkled and balding, I do not need to add a hearing aid or two to further emphasis my age."
"YO...yosh I am most sorry sir." Gai began to shout, but a hard look from the Hokage had him lowering his voice to an acceptable level." I will refrain from speaking so boisterously. Your youth has not fully left you, sensei. Your strength and accumulative wisdom are still as deadly as ever."
Sarutobi was undecided if he wanted to take the compliment or be insulted at the indirect refencing of his age. So he settled for a smirk and shook his head, goodness his student always made his day.
"It is fine Gai, I am just teasing you. I must insist though do not fret over in being attracted to Itachi Uchiha. I am glad you would defend her honor, shows you care about her." Hiruzen complimented, and quickly changed the subject to his agreeing to assign an Anbu to watch over Naruto.
After all he only wanted to plant the seedling for Gai. From this, Sarutobi hoped his student would realise why he had accepted Itachi's request for himself. Sarutobi knew the real reason, as hidden as it was Gai's outburst cemented what Sarutobi knew. After all, Gai talked about Itachi more during their spars then his own friends. Gai probably had no clue that he was in the makings of a fledgling crush, and as his master the Third Hokage felt the need to give his pupil a loving nudge in the right direction to realising this.
Changing the course of the conversation, after all Sarutobi didn't to push Gai too much oitherwise the young man would probably vehemently deny any feelings he was unaware he had. So, he brought up the mission and answered any questions the Might heir may have. This then led into Gai receiving a gift from the Hokage for his mission and then Sarutobi spending some more time with his grandson before Gai and son had to head home.
NARUTO
Mikoto felt light and airy and bubbling with excitement as she entered the Uchiha clan compound, a mood matching spring winds that swept through the Leaf village. She had a spring in her step and a smile that dimpled her cheeks. She hadn't felt this excited in a long time, her entire being trembled with unbridled joy. This morning had been a success, more than a success really. Giggling, she had become instantly taken with Naruto, the boy was polite if a little shy. Sure he let out the odd swear word or two, but that didn't detract from his cherub nature.
Gai had done well in raising Kushina's son. The Matriarch of the Uchiha could admit it was a bit hard for the first few minutes seeing Naruto and not her dear friend or her husband. It was wrong on a level, Naruto should have his parents with him, watching him grow day by day. But, her sorrow was alleviated at seeing how good of a parent Gai was.
From her brief meeting, she could instantly tell Gai was attentive and that his son was his world. He was protective of the boy in how he didn't let his gaze linger too long from his son, not to mention his threat to kill her should her godson be harmed in her care. And she had her daughter to thank for arranging this, for being the catalyst in her seeing her godson and perhaps having the chance to get to know him.
"I take it your meeting went well, mother?" Itachi called from their front deck, casually leaning against the doorframe as Sasuke ran past amd into their mother's arms.
Rubbing her nose against Sasuke's, causing the little girl to giggle, Mikoto gave Itachi a beaming smile. "It had its bumps, but over all Gai agreed to let me babysit Naruto while you are on your mission so long as it is at his house."
Wisely she kept the threat to herself, and having to have an Anbu guard. Itachi didn't need that on her mind just before her mission.
Playfully flicking her eldest child in the nose as she walked past, Itachi crinkled her nose and scowled at her mother. After setting Sasuke down on the sofa, Mikoto proceeded to head to the kitchen to make lunch.
The two sisters followed their mother into the kitchen, with Itachi helping Sasuke up onto a chair. "What were Gai's terms to you baby sitting Naruto, mother?" the elder sibling asked knowingly. She knew Gai well enough to know that he would not have attached a string to his agreement.
Mikoto chuckled lightly as she began to prepare some ham and tomato sandwiches for her children while she pondered on the question asked. The answer was easy to supply, so she instead took a moment to pick at just how her child knew such a thing. The answer she came up with had her smiling like a cat with a new ball of yarn, it was a good thing she had her back turned to her daughters.
"Hm, he simply requested to have an Anbu guard his home and that I had to watch his son at their home is all."
Itachi nodded and moved to take the two plates from her mom, thanking her in the process. Once seated at the table with a glass of milk, Itachi waited until her mother was sitting before speaking.
"How did Naruto react to you?"
At the mention of her nemesis name, Sasuke scowled and looked up from her food and looked first to her sister then to her mother. She blinked inquisitively, albeit with a mild annoyance fileting through her dark hues.
"Probably cried like he always does." Sasuke spat as much as a three year old with her intellect could.
Mikoto lightly reprimanded her daughter, disapproving of her tone and harshness which caused Sasuke to sulk in her chair, her food forgotten.
"He was shy, but he seemed to be a happy child if not energetic. You weren't kidding about him having a sweet-tooth."
Itachi chuckled. "Hm, cousin loves to inebriate him with sugar and watch the chaos."
"Kush…my friend was very similar. She couldn't handle sugar, not sure if it was due to just having a zero intolerance or because of other 'things'." Mikoto replied cryptically and corrected herself seeing as Sasuke was sulking but not deaf.
Itachi hummed, and finished her food, she understood what her mother was meaning, so she didn't need to elaborate. "He reminds me of aunty-K, with how excited he gets."
Mikoto smiled and playfully flicked Sasuke's nose, causing the younger heiress to scowl and bat at her mother's hand. "Stop momma, 'm no child. Flicking noses is for babies."
Both older women laughed, and Itachi ruffled Sasuke's hair. "Not a child are you? Just what are you then, foolish sister?"
Dark hues stared at dark hues. "M Three, not a baby like Naruto."
Mikoto sighed and shook her head, sending a gaze to Itachi. "Naruto has really garnered Sasuke's ire, hasn't he?" she stated more then asked, before lowering herself to Sasuke. "What did Naruto do to you to make you dislike him so much, sweetie?"
Sasuke made a face, what did that big baby do to her? He wouldn't share his toys, and he cried too much for dumb reasons. He wanted to play dumb baby games and bugged her to join in even though she wanted to be left alone. Plus, Itachi, her big sister played with Naruto and she didn't want to share her big sister with anyone. " I don't like him, he is loud, and cries a lot and he bugs me." Sasuke responded, not the best of reasons to dislike someone, but in her view they were very important reasons.
"Oh my, well that is very serious. But you know why he probably bugs you?" the mother asked. "It's probably because he wants to be your friend. Would you try for me, to be nicer to him please?"
Sasuke looked at her mother, then shifted her eyes to her sister who smiled and nodded to her. Sasuke huffed and crossed her arms, but she nodded. "Fine, ugh, can I leave the table please?"
Nodding, Mikoto waited until Sasuke was out of ear-shot before answering the earlier question. "Naruto reminds me so much of his mother that it hurts. Seeing so much of both Kushina and Minato in him, from his hair to his eyes and grin. Gai was ever the gentleman and approached me seeing as how I found myself unable to approach because I got lost in my memories and grief."
And another point added to the brownie points Gai had unknowingly began to collect over the years. Itachi was already trying to work out how to thank the young father, now she would need to double down on her efforts.
The prodigical Uchiha gently clasped her mother's hand, Mikoto gently padded her own and then smiled wickedly. "If I was a few years younger and single I may have found myself attempting to earn that man's affection."
Itachi sputtered, eyes flying open as wide as they could. "Mo…mother." She stammered, feeling a sudden squeeze tighten in her chest at hearing her mother's proclamation.
"What?" Mikoto grinned knowingly. "I am not that old dear and I do have eyes, Gai is a very handsome man, with that beard of his and the muscle his clothing failed to hide. I am surprised the man is single. Women like a man who is an attentive father."
Itachi felt her cheeks bloom, she wanted to deny her mother's words, but her tongue failed to let the worlds fall past her lips. Gai was handsome and solidly built, and that beard of his just added to the rugged appeal that Gai unknowingly had. Itachi was coming to grips with her physical attraction to the young Chunin, maybe not enough to vocalise it but quietly she could acquiesce.
And yes, Itachi found the nurturing fatherly side of Gai very appealing. The idea that other women may find him attractive twisted her stomach uncomfortably. Needing to stay away from those thoughts, especially with a mission so close, Mikoto's eldest child asked if she had seen her father.
Mikoto catalogued her daughter's reaction, rosy cheeks, no denial, and a sudden change of topic.
Yep, her daughter was crushing on Might Gai, oh how Mikoto wanted to squeal in joy and then tease her child all at once. Itachi was such a recluse of a person, .
Alas, she took the mature road and remained quiet and played along with the change of conversation.
Perhaps she could say a few words to the young man, get his cogs spinning and his brain to look at her daughter in a romantic view.
"No, he left early this morning, said he had a lot of work to do. Why do you ask?"
Itachi half shrugged and finished her milk first before responding. "I was just curious, I haven't seen him in two days and I wanted to say goodbye to him before we leave."
Mikoto kept her frown at bay, now that the topic arose, she too hadn't seen Fugaku for over two days as well. Not that it mattered really considering as of late they slept in separate beds and rarely were affectionate with one another. Affectionate being a simple kiss or peck on the cheek, she couldn't recall the last time she and Fugaku slept together.
With each passing day it felt like her husband was growing more and more distant, the man she grew to love was transforming into a man that resembled her own father. Cold, distant and apathetic and stern to his children. Kushina's guardian couldn't exactly pinpoint when their love began to grow cold, or when, it wasn't a spontaneous spiral, bot more of a soft descent into a loveless marriage that was held together solely because of clan politics.
If she divorced Fugaku she would lost her place as Matriarch and she could no longer protect Sasuke or Itachi from the vultures that were the Uchiha elders. An archaic belief, the women were to be subservient to the men, and all titles passed onto the males if a divorce occurred. A system designed to keep women from leaving their spouse, an illusion to portray a solid unified clan to the entire village.
A clan that demanded perfection in all aspects and refused to show imperfection; there was no room for anything less.
"Well, your father is a busy man. Otherwise I am sure he would love to see you off."
A lie, a horrible lie that neither mother nor daughter believed. But, it was nice to pretend that the clan head truly was a busy man and would feel guilt over not seeing his eldest child off. A sentimental notion, a foolish want and craving.
It was nice to pretend Fugaku cared, right?
NARUTO
"Dad, no can go, stay here."
Gai sighed as finished sealing up the last bit of items he thought he would need. Naruto had been clingy all morning, the sudden realisation that his father was going away just now alerting the young child. His finish packing was made difficult by Naruto having attached himself to his dad's leg, forcing Gai to drag his son around.
Finishing tying up the last sealing scroll to his bag, Gai peeled Naruto off of him and carried both child and bag to the front door. "Yosh, Naruto my boy." Gai began after resting his items against the door frame. "We have been over this, I am a shinobi, as such I I have duties I must uphold to the village, yosh."
The red-haired child frowned and shook his head, clinging tigher to Gai's leg. "No, no want you go."
Amused at how stubborn his son was being, the father peeled his son from his leg and hoisted him up so they were eye level. "And what do you suppose we tell grandpa then? That I have come down with a most unyouthful illness and cannot go?"
Naruto blinked. "Why would you need to ask grandpa?"
"Because he is my boss, he is the Hokage and rules the village."
Gai smiled at his son before turning away to go over anything else he was missing.
"Grandpa tells you what to do?" Naruto asked, glancing down toward his dad's head.
"Yup, even your momma got to tell me what to do."
Setting Naruto down, Gai ruffled his boy's hair and had to explain why Kakashi was able to order him around when Naruto asked. This led to a discussion into shinobi and the rankings, not that Naruto would truly understand considering his age. Though Naruto was taught about shinobi, he didn't fully understand it all. But he did know his mom was a super kick ass person according to his dad and that she was really pretty too.
Finally a knock on the door drew Gai's attention, after making one final mental check he answered.
"Ah, Lady Mikoto, Itachi, and young Sasuke." Gai smiled widely and stepped aside to let the three Uchiha into his home. "Here, let me."
"Thank you Gai." Mikoto bowed respectfully when Gai reached out to releave her of the her bag.
"Yosh, you are welcome," he grinned.
"Hn, I see how it is, playing favorites with my mother?" Itachi clucked her tongue, barely hiding the mischief under a mildly scolding tone.
"Huh?" Gai blinked and paused just as he was about to turn into his home. "Lady Itachi, why would you think I prefer your mother over you?"
The clan heiress adjusted her shoulder, bringing the father's gaze to the duffle bag she carried. "Does your generosity not extend to me as well?"
Mikoto, having caught the twinkle in her child's eyes, grinned to herself. Gai sputtered and profusely apologised before hastly taking Itachi's doufle bag, the heiress kept her smirk at bay, thoroughly enjoying causing stress to her newly devloped crush.
Gai proceeded to show Mikoto where everything was, including the guest bedroom. He rattled off Naruto's likes and dislikes, and how sensitive he was to sugar. Mikoto took the mild lecturing in stride, she herself could appreciate being a first time parent about to leave their child for a period of time.
She reassured the father, fondly watched father and son say their goodbyes before Gai grabbed his backpack that held scrolls and various items. Deciding that to best keep his persona up, he couldn't seal everything away. Hence why he decided to wear travelling clothes instead of his green jumpsuit.
Gai and Itachi left the Hidden Leaf village.
Done, sorry for the late update, been busy with life. This chapter, while is a slight filler, I needed to introduce Mikoto to Naruto. Some of you may query why Naruto was suddenly so trusting of her? Well two reasons, one she gave him candy which he loves, and two, being part Kitsune I liken Naruto to a dog in that so long as his dad is with him, and reassures everything is fine he has no reason not to trust. Similar to a dog standing by their owner, fi their owner is calm the dog is calm.
1: Sharingan, this is my take on the Sharingan. I actually got my own origin story that fits the story worked out. But, when I look at what each tomoe does, it gave me the idea of two types of Sharingan. Offensive aligned versus defensive and the Mangekyo that is unlocked and the abilities are further cemented. Example, Sasuke unlocked his fighting Haku and trying to protect Naruto. Susana-o I feel is more defence than offence. Same with Kamui and Obito's eye its all about defence. And if you look at how Obito/Kakashi unlocked theirs.
I know the anime says one must kill their bestfriend to unlock it, but I don't buy that bullcrap. So, to elaborate on the Sharingan and make my Uchiha unique and original to all other fics I am going with this idea.
2: Mikoto and Gai, I could have done an entire chapter on them, but for the sake of progress I compacted their meeting. I am trying to show Gai maturing from an emotionally crippled new father, to someone who is growing into his own. I am mindful of not making him a mary sue character. He will have his faults and does, and even phobias. But, he trusts Itachi, and using reason in place of emotion, he is trusting within reason that Mikoto would not hurt his son. Especially with how Mikoto titled Naruto as his son and not Kushina's, he became endeared to her.