Hello, and welcome to tbe next chapter!
Morregen; That would be a pretty cool scenario. I can't spoil much about it, but it's going to be emotional whatever happens. He could learn the Snake summon. Any of those two ideas would be pretty cool to explore. Thanks! Don't worry, it's fine~
Isao Gin; Things are going to be intensely heating up now. Hehe, sorry for being a tease~
ShadowUzumaki55; Haku is yeah, with the help of Ryouta and the others. That's Danzo for you, he's gonna try and have things go his way. Sugaru's going to be going through quite a few conflicting emotions. Yeah, even if it's only a little bit, Fugaku can see what he's done isn't exactly right. Fugaku will tell Ryouta about his true feelings in time. Glad you liked it!
Silver crow; Thanks! Yeah, Haku's settling in. Hinata's gonna be coming out of her shell more and more as the story goes. He did partly yeah. He did get some praise yeah. Hehe, Satsuki seems to have some jealousy of Haku. Yeah, Haku says it as it is, and she and Naruko have become good friends. Yeah, he wasn't really embarrassed, he was just curious to what was going on. Yeah, Ryouta and Hinata had a chance to speak to one another. Danzo can see his talent, but he also wishes for the power itself. Funnily enough, it was mentioned in the anime Danzo likes to have people from clans in his Root organization, and Uchiha was mentioned, if that's taken as canon or not is up to debate but it wouldn't surprise me if he did at one point have some. I'm sure Hiruzen would have a moment like that with Danzo. It seems that he at least understands how to help Naruko out. They are trying to help out Satsuki and Itachi's relationship yeah. If Sugaru stays alive, or with the village...who knows~ Yeah, Fugaku and Ryouta had a little scene between them. That was just Fugaku stating it rather than a question and how to open up into a deeper conversation. Tobi definitely had a little slip now Ryouta and some others are out for him. Yeah, they could have it in the opposite eyes to each other. Sarada will be yeah, and yeah, she'd be the daughter of Ryou and Sakura. Could be yeah. Boruto will be his son. He'll have a positive influence on his son. That would be cool. It seems that his children could be a few future Kage's. Any of those could be cool Sensei's. He could teach Mirai some stuff as she ages. Thanks for the suggestions! Yeah, that would be cool~
Guest 1; Yeah, the storms coming quite soon though, and thanks!
Guest 2; That's a good house. That would be a cool pet. That would be a cool moment between Luna and him.
Guest 3; Hehe, that would be a cool moment for Satsuki, thanks for the suggestion!
MDM11; Yeah, maybe she could be~ Yeah, it seems that Itachi was the exception rather than the rule when it came to Mangekyou powers. Hinata could learn those yeah. If Ryouta had Scorch Release, that could be pretty awesome~ Thanks for the suggestions! They could wield those swords. It would be cool if he was their Sensei.
War Sage; Thanks! Glad you liked it! Yeah, Danzo would think about it, even after his attempts already had failed. The one that Naruto had in canon. Yeah, they got in some training~ Tobi did quite the slip, and thought he'd be able to push it that far without Ryouta realizing what was going on. Itachi and Shisui will discuss it yeah. Thanks for the suggestions!
Brainstorm Sorcerer; Yeah, last chapter was a calm before the storm, with things getting quite heavy in the next few chapters. Danzo and Ryouta's relationship is going to be rather interesting as the story goes on. Hehe, Haku just says what she sees~ He's on good terms with most of them, the others he hasn't really spoken with. His meeting with Jiraiya wont be for a while yet. Shisui might show his Susanoo rather soon. He will meet other Jinchuriki. Ryouta and Lee will have a proper battle one day, and show one another the fruits of their training. Tobi did a little slip. That would be a cool design for Ryouta's Susanoo. Hehe, maybe a scene like that will happen when canon time starts up. Satsuki really doesn't like competition~ Yeah, their relationship has changed over time.
maxbrevan; Thanks! Those would be cool, thanks for the suggestions!
Andrew123456; Whatever happens to Shisui, Ryouta will someday get his eyes.
Pinkflamingwarriorofjustice; He wants to understand Ultear and what she's doing. It might be difficult but Ultear to that point is the only family he's known so he'd fight for her. They'll see one another again in the future. La Brava would be with Gentle, and be a big sister sort of person to Gentle's brother, Himiko would be though. Ultear will learn that and he eventually would join Fairy Tail. I'm going over them, so I don't have an exact date yet. Ultear would yeah. That would come later into the story.
Lightwave; Haku is yeah. She does, she has a unique bond with Ryouta due to him helping her out, and showing her a new life. Hehe, it seems that there's a little jealousy going on huh. He is yeah, Naruko seems to be improving there. Shisui is yeah, his fate...it will be revealed really soon.
Neonlight01; He does yeah. Danzo's got his eyes on Ryouta. Shisui wont allow it though. Haku's adjusting to her new life yeah. Some of them will be getting rewritten, the others will be updated in time.
Guest 4; Yeah, that would be cool~ Yeah, we'll find out what Tobi really desires in the future. He could have those elemental affinities, he'll be able to use all five eventually. We'll see what happens with Shisui, whatever does happen will shape Ryouta quite a bit. Yeah, that ability definitely would be useful against a few people. As the story goes, he'd be able to make more and more Shadow Clones as his chakra reserves grow. I can't spoil what will happen with Ryouta when that time comes, Satsuki might not even leave due to Ryouta being there as a stable influence who would understand the pain she felt. They could meet Fu during that time. If Danzo manages to get Shisui's eye here, he might not~ Yeah, Danzo is going to be a big part of Ryouta's story, whatever happens with Danzo's plans against Shisui. He could tell his kids that. He could still explore the Shinobi world without having to abandon the village. Yeah that would be cool for his child. Yeah, Konan is. They'll have a nice relationship between them.
Guest 5; He's gonna be there for his kids, and do like how Shisui has done for him. He'll train them if that's the path they decide to go on.
Guest 6; Yeah, he could learn to summon crows from Shisui.
Well, with those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Shisui's choice!
Immediately after Ryouta brought up some concerns regarding this Tobi, Shisui went towards the Hokage, and explained what had been going on. He didn't know the full details, but Shisui was worried what Tobi truly had wanted.
Thankfully, they were alone so they didn't have to worry about anyone leaking any information.
As Hiruzen listened, he was becoming increasingly worried.
He didn't want to have a repeat of what happened with Yashiro.
Also the fact that he wasn't even aware of this person being around Ryouta was in of itself worrying.
"...That's troubling news Shisui."
Hiruzen said with a mixed expression of anger and worry on his face, the fact that this was happening to a child that already had been terrorized.
"I thought the same thing, I don't want my little brother to feel like that in the village. Meeting once or twice would be a coincidence, but it seems that this...Tobi has been meeting my little brother from time to time, and tonight had said some stuff about Uchiha to him. According to Ryou...it made him feel uncomfortable, asking questions and his general demeanour being that would bring discomfort, and he wasn't being genuine with his attitude. I'd trust my brother in his thoughts, he's become pretty good at reading people."
Shisui explained.
Due to having lived a life where even his own clan have been against him, Ryouta has grown to understand people, and tell if they're being truthful, deceitful, getting general vibes by how people act, and what they say, and what's not said.
"So, there's a man in a mask calling himself Tobi going around the village...I haven't had any other reports about this. So, it makes me wonder if he seems to be going towards Ryouta-kun...do you think it could be another Uchiha? Like Yashiro?"
Shisui shrugged his shoulders.
"I hope that it isn't. But I wouldn't understand why do this...what the objective would be. I asked when he first met this Tobi, and he said it was before starting the Academy."
Hiruzen stroked his chin in wonder.
"Very unsettling, someone that far back has been attempting to try something with young Ryouta-kun….Shisui, lets keep this between us. We don't want to cause mass panic. If this was an invasion, it would have happened already."
Shisui agreed with a nod of his head.
"Yes, that would be too long for any kind of invasion tactic. Still, what could he want with a child…? The Sharingan maybe? But he didn't even activate the Sharingan back then...I don't understand what he could want. But, I'd like to request-"
"Already done, you wont have any missions outside of the village until we reach some kind of answer for this."
Shisui was relieved.
He couldn't be away now.
He didn't want what happened with Yashiro to happen to Ryouta.
He just couldn't have it happen.
"Thank you sir. This isn't the first time someone has taken an interest in my brother, in a negative manner. Yashiro...now this Tobi guy. I don't know what to make of it sir, but it troubles me that this Tobi could even escape my eyes. His speed...if it was something else, very troubling."
Hiruzen also felt troubled by this revelation.
Someone had been doing stuff without his knowledge.
He didn't want to think about what this Tobi wished with Ryouta of all people.
He was a child, he didn't know of anything significant about him that would warrant such behaviour.
"Speaking of Ryouta-kun...Danzo has suggested something to me. About having Ryouta-kun graduate from the Academy early."
Shisui didn't look surprised.
He believed Danzo would stick his nose into others businesses eventually.
"I see..."
"He believes it could build a bridge between Uchiha and the village."
"I doubt that it would sir." Shisui began. "I mean, I do believe in Ryou, and his skills are sharp. However, despite what has happened with Ryou, with his achievements, that has only given some other Uchiha reason to place more hate onto his shoulders due to how Fugaku-san acted, and how some truly believed Yashiro was in the right. So being a bridge, I don't believe that it would be, as much as I wish it was the case."
"Yes...I also had similar thoughts. Either way, I'll give you a new mission Shisui. Find the person targeting Ryouta-kun, use any means necessary. And if you need assistance, I'll see what I can do from here. But as I said... For now, lets keep this a secret. I wont tell any of the other members of the council."
"Not even Danzo-sama?"
Shisui asked, but it sounded more of a request in Hiruzen's ears.
Hiruzen acknowledged what he said, and simply inclined his neck.
"Yes, I also wont say a thing to Danzo. But other than that...tell me honestly Shisui-kun, about Uchiha. Do you honestly believe a peaceful solution can be brought about?"
Shisui shook his head to Hiruzen's astonishment.
"I...I wish that there could be. As time goes on, I'm becoming more in doubt that peace can be achieved through normal means."
Hiruzen raised an eyebrow at that.
"Normal means?"
"Yes..."
Shisui batted his eyelids a few times.
Hiruzen searched for what Shisui was thinking, then he began to understand fully what was going on.
"Then, you're thinking of using that, aren't you? Your Kotoamatsukami?"
Shisui was hesitant to use it.
But he knew that for the future of his little brother, then he'd do what was necessary.
"I believe it might be the best choice for us to proceed. I am...worried about the future of both the village, and the clan. I do not wish for either to suffer. I remember people like my little brother, Satsuki-san, Izumi-chan and the rest of the good innocent Uchiha who haven't done a thing in this. Those would suffer the most."
Hiruzen could understand Shisui's thoughts.
"Then, I'll give you sometime to think about it. And if you wish to go through with it, then I'll respect your decision."
Shisui bowed his head.
"Thank you, sir. I'll do my best to search for this masked man, and detain him for questioning."
Hiruzen nods.
"Then, dismissed."
Shisui bowed, and left.
He was worried about what was going to happen next.
But he'd be there to make sure Ryouta was safe and sound.
Making it back home, he smiled towards Izumi, not telling her of what was going on yet to not worry her.
"Anything happen while I was gone?"
Izumi gave a curious look.
"Was something supposed to happen?"
Shisui adopted a cheery demeanour.
"Not that I know of~"
"Okay then...so, what's going on? How come you seemed a little...weird before?"
Shisui was acting differently, he couldn't deny it.
"It's just, with the clan and all, it's becoming more and more of a troubled time."
"Yes...I know what you mean. Shisui-kun...the clan, it's planning to do something to the village, isn't it?"
"I wont let that happen."
Shisui comforted the best he could.
"I also heard...that some people are doubting Itachi-kun's loyalties to the clan. Itachi-kun is someone that's got a good heart, he isn't someone that would do horrible stuff. The only way he'd do it is if he was forced to do it. I'm just worried...Yashiro turned on us once...if the other Uchiha turned on Itachi-kun..."
Shisui agreed, and could understand her concerns.
She really did like Itachi.
She might have even loved Itachi.
Whatever it was, she didn't want anything to happen to Itachi.
"I know it's a confusing time, Izumi-chan. I'll watch over Itachi, I promise."
"Hehe...I'm sure Itachi-kun can handle himself, he'd tell me I'm just being a worrier or something."
Shisui shook his head.
"It just shows that you care, that's all. I'm glad that you do, Itachi is...he's someone that's hard to figure out for most. But you seem to help bring out more of his...kinder sides, and his deeper emotions that he usually keeps hidden."
Izumi scratches the back of her head sheepishly.
"I don't know if it is like that, but I'm at least glad that Itachi-kun is a little more open. Though I feel sometimes as if he's...keeping something back. Maybe it's to protect me or something...but I wish that he could confide in me."
Shisui gave a light smile.
"I'm sure when the times right, Itachi will tell you anything that he's thinking about deeply. Until then, believe in him."
It's all Shisui could say, since he did know what Itachi was keeping back, but couldn't say right now. He didn't want Izumi to be in danger.
"That I can do~"
Though she was chipper, she did feel that Shisui also was keeping something back.
Izumi wasn't an idiot, and could feel that the pair had been keeping a secret for a while now.
Not just them, but the clan also.
Shisui then climbed the stairs, and went towards Ryouta's bedroom.
Going in after knocking, he saw Ryouta sat on the bed, seemingly waiting for Shisui.
"Shi-chan, did you speak to Hokage-sama?"
"Yes, he hadn't any idea on who this could be." He revealed truthfully, he didn't want to lie to Ryouta. "But, that doesn't mean he can get away with making you feel worry. I'll be looking into this, and until then, lets keep it between us, okay?"
Ryouta nodded, trusting in Shisui.
"But Shi-chan...Tobi-san, what do you think he wants?"
Shisui pulls to the side of his little brother, giving him a comforting pat on the head.
"I don't know. But, whatever it is that he wants, he wont be able to get it. Maybe he's a harmless person, maybe he's just trying to play pranks."
Shisui wanted to try and see it from all angles.
Though he did think that Tobi probably was trying to do something with Ryouta, he just didn't know what it was.
"I don't get it Shi-chan...it isn't like I've got...anything special..."
"Haha, I think you don't understand that you do, Ryou. You're very special."
Ryouta cocks his head.
"How so?"
"Because...you've experienced so many things in your short life. More than many Ninja might ever experience. Death, destruction, other villages attacking you, the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, the politics of other nations. That's something many don't experience for a good long while."
"Still, I don't know...does he...want my Sharingan?"
Shisui did wonder what Tobi could desire.
If it was the Sharingan...why didn't he take it before?
Due to the fact that he could seemingly slide out of Shisui's perceptions and disappear before even he managed to arrive when Ryouta explained he was only speaking to him moments before Shisui called out, then he believed that Tobi could have simply taken Ryouta's Sharingan before he could even act.
But it seemed to be more than that.
"It's...a possibility. I wish that it wasn't...and I don't want to worry you...but, I'm going to teach you a few things, okay? That will even work on some experienced Ninja, that might be stunned for a few moments. Your Sharingan can be used to stun opponents Ryou. Even for a second, it can make a world of difference. With your fully matured Sharingan, it's just as capable as mine, or Itachi's. You just need some experience, and from what I've seen, you're adept at using visual Genjutsu."
"Like you, Shi-chan?"
"I guess so yeah~" Shisui gently embraced his little brother, and he smiled. "Whatever happens, I'll make sure that you're safe from this Tobi. Whatever he wants, he wont get it. If it is your Sharingan, or something else...he wont have it."
Ryouta did feel comforted by the words.
But also…
Something else felt more off than he thought it would be.
"...Okay Shi-chan, I'll trust you."
"Right, leave it to me. Now, it's getting late, it's time to go to sleep."
"Okay...but, Shi-chan. Can you...stay until I fall asleep? Like you used too?"
Shisui smiled gently.
"Sure, I'll be here until you fall asleep."
Ryouta laid down, and closed his eyes.
Shisui smiled, he was glad to spend this time with his little brother, and make him feel safe.
The incident with Tobi probably brought back memories of Yashiro, and he didn't want to have Ryouta worry about that. Though he knew that Ryouta was tough, and even if Tobi did show back up, Ryouta would fight back, if Tobi tried anything.
As the boy fell asleep, Shisui waited to make sure he was fully asleep, before he quietly left the room.
"Alright...time to see if I can track down anything...about this Tobi..."
Thinking to himself, he quietly slipped out of the house while leaving behind a crow clone to make sure that Ryouta was protected while he was gone.
The next day, Shisui and Itachi stood within a training area, watching as Ryouta and Satsuki trained together.
"I'm going to become stronger Satsuki-chan~"
"Hmph, if that's a challenge, then I'll gladly accept it!"
Satsuki came at him first, and sent a few shurikens at him, but he used his eyes to see the path they'd take, and dodged with minimal movement, before taking out his own kunai, and flung it towards Satsuki in a fast manner.
Satsuki though jumped over it, and then tossed a number of kunai towards him at semi close range.
Ryouta back flipped, the blades piercing before him, then he moved his finger, Satsuki glancing behind her and saw that the kunai that Ryouta had thrown was coming back towards her right hand side.
However, the moment it went to pierce her, she twirled, and slashed the kunai, dropping the kunai to the ground.
"Wow Satsuki-chan, each time we spar, you always surprise me."
"Hmph, naturally. I'm going to do my best, and show you even without the Sharingan, that I'll become strong."
"I'm sure you'll get it one day Satsuki-chan!"
Satsuki lightly smiled, as they continued training together.
Itachi and Shisui watched carefully, seeing how they were able to use different movements to try and catch the other off guard.
"It seems that they're enjoying their time together, doesn't it?"
"Yes, that's how it seems to be~"
Shisui chuckled out.
Itachi though could feel something was wrong with Shisui.
"Shisui, is there something on your mind?"
"...Officially, I can't really discuss it."
Itachi's eyebrows turned inwards.
"What do you mean by that?"
"...Someone might be targeting Ryou."
Itachi gained a serious face.
"...Someone is targeting him? Who?"
"I don't know, I haven't seen them face to face. But Ryou tells me that he's met this person a few times. Sometimes, it was just an accidental meeting in the streets. Though something tells me that it wasn't so accidental. But last night, while he was waiting for me, this Tobi appeared again, and said some uncomfortable things, and began acting...strange."
"...Though it might be just a coincidence, seeing what has happened in the past...you believe this Tobi is after him?"
"It's the only thing that I could think of. I'm searching for him. But all I know it's a man in a mask, with a swirl pattern and only had one eye hole, not much to go on."
Itachi's eyes broadened.
"...A mask, and a swirl pattern? A single eye hole..."
"That's right. Does that ring a bell?"
"Though it wasn't exactly a swirl like pattern, there was someone I met years ago, when I awakened my Sharingan...there was a man in a mask that attacked my team on a mission and killed one of my comrades. I don't know if they were the same person...but that person was dangerous."
"...I see, if they're the same person...then it can't be a coincidence. Attacking your group, with you being an Uchiha, then there's another Uchiha being talked to by this person, this time it being Ryou. Maybe it's someone that's curious about Uchiha, who wishes to have the Sharingan..."
"It could be. On top of the coup, it seems that we'll have to be careful of this man. I'll also do my own investigation the best that I can do."
Shisui looked relieved.
"Thank you, Itachi."
Itachi nodded slowly.
Shisui continued watching what was going on, seeing Ryouta having fun together with Satsuki.
He was glad that Ryouta could still have some normal times as a child.
A few days later, Ryouta was casually stood together with his classmates as they were doing some outside training near the Acacdemy.
Satsuki looked rather bored, while Haku was just accepting the lessons she was given. Though it was clear that Haku was above most of her class, even Satsuki had to acknowledge the skills and intelligence that Haku had. Due to the time that she spent with Zabuza, she learned a great deal of Ninja skills, and how to apply them in different ways.
Though Ryouta did see that she was learning a few things that Zabuza hadn't either got round to teaching or found unnecessary so he was glad that Haku was learning in different ways.
Naruko was barely paying attention, and seemed to be almost asleep.
However, Ryouta felt something off.
He looked around, hoping that it wasn't Tobi what he was feeling.
But it wasn't that in the end at all.
Walking up to the Academy, was a village elder.
It was Danzo.
His lone eye went towards the students, and his eye met with Ryouta's own eyes.
Ryouta felt a chill going down his spine, he didn't like the way Danzo was looking towards him.
Danzo then turned his head away, and began moving around the Academy.
Shaking his body, he turned back to the lesson, though his eyes would drift to where Danzo was, though it seemed he was looking in on different classes also, at least that's what Danzo wished to show.
"Ryouta-kun, you're up next."
Ryouta smiled, and walked towards the Sensei, together with another student. Stepping inside of the ring that was on the ground, Ryouta felt chills going up and down his spine.
He looked back, and saw that Danzo was still there, but didn't seem to be looking directly at him at least for the moment.
He felt uncomfortable.
He didn't really know Danzo, but what he did know at least was that he is a village elder.
Still, it didn't mean Danzo wasn't any less creepy.
"You both know the rules, the first one to go down is the loser. Also, stepping outside of the ring will also be considered a loss."
""Yes Sensei!""
They both cheered.
Ryouta watched as the boy withdrew a kunai.
"Here I come."
The boy then charged for Ryouta…
But something was off.
Ryouta had seen this boy move before, and he wasn't nearly this fast.
Ryouta dodged out of the way, and skipped backwards as the boy came at him with a flurry of shurikens.
Ryouta then took out his kunai, and slashed the shurikens out of the air, before seeing the boy coming at him with a strong kick.
"I don't recall him being this fast..."
Ryouta thought as he blocked the kick, pushing him backwards before the boy flipped and then landed on the ground.
"Come on Ryou, knock him down."
Satsuki encouraged, Ryouta chortled lightly.
"Right, leave it with me."
"You wont be able to win against me Uchiha-san."
With a heavy foot stomp, he forced his way to Ryouta, and came from the right hand side, Ryouta managed to move his face backwards in time, but did feel something was a little off, and he wasn't sure exactly what it was.
He then tried to come at Ryouta from the right hand side in a fast move, but Ryouta blocked his kick with his arm, surprising his opponent, then Ryouta went low and tried to sweep his leg.
But to his astonishment, the boy flipped backwards, and took out some shurikens, tossing them towards Ryouta at high speeds.
Ryouta dodged by jumping backwards, but came near the end of the circle that they were in.
Using that chance, the boy tried to force Ryouta out of the ring by giving a hard punch.
Ryouta though wouldn't allow it, and jumped upwards.
Avoiding the fist, Ryouta landed behind him, quickly turned, and grappled the boy with a single leg, trapping his body behind his knee with his leg wrapped around him.
"Get off!"
The boy yelled, but Ryouta quickly tossed him towards the other end with a single flick of his leg like a whip, and a twirl of his body, the boy went skidding across the floor.
"Yay! Go Ryou-kun! Give him the sixteen hit combo!"
Ino cheered as Sakura clapped her hands together.
"Yes, go on Ryou-kun!"
Karin pushed up her glasses, and tried to act tough, but she ended up gushing and murmuring "How cool~" when seeing Ryouta readying himself to fight once more.
Satsuki slowly nods her head, as Naruko pumps her fists up.
"Yahoo! Go on Ryouta-kun! Kick his butt!"
Hinata didn't say anything, but she poked her fingers together rather shyly, and watched on as Ryouta got himself ready, while the boy was trying to recover from Ryouta's counter attack.
Haku watched on, and furrowed her brows.
"Ryou-kun...do your best."
Haku murmured as Ryouta got focused.
Ryouta focused on his speed, and rushed for the young boy.
Ryouta got in close within moments.
Even the Sensei was baffled for a few seconds that Ryouta could cross the distance so fast.
Haku wasn't surprised since she had seen him move like that beforehand, neither was Satsuki since she trained with him often.
"No way!"
The boy called, and tried to block Ryouta's foot, but Ryouta moved lower, his foot moving so rapidly that the boy couldn't block, and received a hard blow to his upper body, forcing his body down to the ground in a single shot.
Danzo looked impressed.
"So, even though I had replaced that boy for this match...the person I replaced him with is their age, but is more skilled. It seems that boy surpassed my expectations, and I didn't even see the Sharingan. Definitely, this boy has potential...like his elder brother, and his eyes, like his elder brothers..."
Danzo turned, and left, satisfied by what he had seen.
Ryouta glanced back to Danzo, and saw him making his retreat.
Ryouta found that rather weird, but didn't know what to say about it.
Shaking his head, he heard the Sensei call "Ryouta Uchiha-kun wins." so he went back to the others, and watched the other matches go ahead.
A number of days after this event, Shisui was currently training together with Ryouta, and helping him use Genjutsu, use the Sharingan to recognize Genjutsu quicker and easier, along with other skills that he could use with the Sharingan.
Standing in a training area, with a small lake behind them, and a sea of trees around them, they were rather cut off. That's how Shisui liked it, he wanted to be able to train with Ryouta privately, and make sure that he was well prepared.
"Shi-chan, I heard that Itachi-san is training with Satsuki-chan. She was so happy when she told me. It seems that she just wanted to spend time with her big brother."
Ryouta brought up, something that made Shisui laugh lightly.
"Haha, it seems that you and Izumi-chan might've been able to help Itachi out in that regard, get him to relax a little bit."
Ryouta nodded in agreement.
"Yes, that's right Shi-chan!"
Shisui inhaled slowly, seeing
"Alright, ready?"
Ryouta nodded.
"Yes, Shi-chan. Don't hold back, okay?"
"...It seems that you're rather serious."
"Yes, please Shi-chan. I want to be strong."
Shisui smiled, and made eye contact with him.
"Alright then, lets begin."
As he said that, the Sharingan activated, and created a new illusion.
Surrounding Ryouta, were wires that wrapped around his arms, and held him up.
Wrapping tightly around him, Ryouta felt it restraining him tightly.
Though it seemed cruel, Ryouta was glad for the experience, he didn't want to be caught in a Genjutsu that he couldn't get out of one day even with his Sharingan, so he was training with it the best that he could.
Shisui also didn't like making illusions that could frighten Ryouta, but with Tobi, and other threats that had happened, he wanted to make sure that Ryouta was well prepared for any kind of attack in the future.
Whether that's physical, or mental like this.
Ryouta saw the wires pulling him up, he could feel it on his skin, the sound of the wire running across his skin was also evident. He could even smell the metallic nature of the wire itself, it all was flooding his senses.
Shisui did it with a single look, and it felt so real.
It felt as if he truly was being bound and couldn't move at all.
Ryouta controlled his breathing the best he could, and allowed his Sharingan Tomoe to spin, focusing on dispelling the illusion.
Trying as hard as he could, since Shisui was very adept at Genjutsu, his ones were rather strong.
But he didn't quit, and tried his hardest.
Shisui watches as Ryouta's eyes broke through the illusion, and he dropped to the floor, with beads of sweat rolling down his face.
Shisui was proud to see Ryouta being able to use his Sharingan in such a proficient way.
"Good, it seems that you can break through illusions like that. By training more with it, you'll be able to break illusions faster, recognize them also. Sometimes, illusions don't have to be so obvious as the one I placed you on. I've also placed a subtle Genjutsu on you, Ryou. Can you tell what is different than before? Use your mind, and Sharingan, you'll be able to see it."
Ryouta blinked, and looked around.
His Sharingan eyes looked through the trees, but didn't notice anything.
He looked towards the body of water behind them, but didn't notice anything.
Then his eyes went towards Shisui himself.
Overlooking the man's body, he noticed something was off.
"The strap on your leg, it's on the wrong leg."
Shisui smiled strongly, nodding strongly.
"That's right. You can also cast subtle Genjutsu on someone to gain the advantage in a battle. It doesn't always have to be overwhelming the opponent. Sometimes people will have ways of getting around our Sharingan, so being able to cast subtle Genjutsu would be a big advantage to you."
Ryouta nodded, hopping to his feet.
"Yes, Shi-chan!"
"Then, lets continue~"
Shisui smiled out, so Ryouta nodded strongly.
Being able to grow stronger like this, was a dream for Ryouta.
Being trained by his elder brother in the usage of his Sharingan, he didn't want anything like this to ever end.
Danzo, sat within his office, having observed Ryouta for a while now, had concluded that it might be time for him to make a move. He wanted the power of Shisui's eyes, and he was going to do what was necessary for him to gain them.
Even if it meant targeting a child.
Sugaru stood before him, and he held no emotions in his eyes, nor on his face.
"It's time to use your position to get close to that child. Shisui is on guard, and wont allow anyone to approach so easily, however if it is you who he has built some kind of a bond with, you'll be able to go into the house and then use your special insects."
"...You want me to kill the boy?"
"No, I do not with him dead. I wish for the power of Shisui's eyes, and poisoning that boy, will make Shisui do what we wish for him to do. That boy has strong eyes, I can feel it. And being their child, like Shisui, he'll have great potential which we've already witnessed. That's why, you have an antidote to your insects, don't you?"
"As you instructed, yes."
"Then that will be our bargaining chip. Attacking Shisui directly might be difficult due to him being on high alert. But a child...a child he'd do anything for, he'd surrender the power of his eyes, and then we'll finish him off. If he's gone, then that boy could grow in unique ways. Perhaps his power could be..."
As he was saying it…
Sugaru felt something deep inside.
He didn't want to harm a child.
He didn't know that he was capable of even feeling like this.
Perhaps it was Shisui, who he believed to be his friend, and had gotten to know…
But he just felt wrong about harming a child for such an advantage.
"Sugaru, why are you staying silent?"
Sugaru only realized then that he hadn't said anything for over half a minute.
Something that probably would have alerted Danzo to him thinking about something.
"It's nothing, Danzo-sama. I'm...thinking about how best to approach the situation."
"Then when you've done it, contact me immediately, and we'll begin the second phase. If we're so close, then Shisui might get wind of our plan. Go now, Sugaru, and make sure that child is poisoned."
Sugaru nodded, bowed, and walked away, sliding into the shadows.
Conflicting emotions were appearing in places that he didn't think existed within himself anymore.
Sugaru had a duty to Root, but he also didn't like the idea of targeting the most precious person to Shisui either.
It...just didn't feel right.
Still, with his mission in his mind, he tried pushing down all of the hard feelings he had deep inside.
Meanwhile, since the investigation for the mysterious Tobi had begun, nothing had come of it despite how hard Shisui searched and looked.
Shisui had to conclude he wasn't in the village anymore, or at least was keeping a very low profile and hadn't dared to show his face.
He kept a close eye on Ryouta, and still nothing was going on.
Right now, Shisui sat within the meeting of the Uchiha. He was slightly surprised that Itachi wasn't within the meeting. It seemed that perhaps he had been omitted from the meeting for some reason he wasn't aware of.
"Your son, Fugaku-sama."
One member of the Uchiha spoke up.
"Yes? What about my child?"
"There's been rumours of him as of late. Due to his nature, he might not be for the coup."
Shisui took note of that.
"Itachi has been acting as our spy within Anbu for a good while now. My son can be trusted. Though if you feel strongly about it, perhaps he could be monitored."
Shisui didn't know if Fugaku was not trusting Itachi, or simply trying to appease the others and believed that Itachi wouldn't do anything to the clan that would effect it in a negative manner.
Seeing the fact that Fugaku was speaking more and more about invading Konoha, and to do the coup, it was becoming increasingly clear that Shisui felt as if he'd have to do something sooner or later.
He knew it would have to be sooner.
Along with the fact that there was some masked man out there trying to target Ryouta, he also had to worry about the Uchiha clan. He knew that Itachi was doing his best also, but he knew that the outcome was that Fugaku wouldn't have a peaceful solution.
That's why Shisui knew that he'd have to make a choice, and that choice was to use his Mangekyou Sharingan.
"In a few weeks time, we shall be ready to make our move." Fugaku began. "Shisui." Shisui looked towards Fugaku. "Though our relationship has been rocky in the past, you still stand with Uchiha, do you not?"
Shisui inclined his neck in agreement.
"I do, this is my clan after all. The clan of my Father's side. The clan my Mother married into. I shall do what is necessary for my clan."
Though he said that without much emotion…
He just couldn't agree with how his clan was trying to do these horrible things.
He didn't want to betray the clan…
But he didn't want anything to happen to the village either.
He also thought about the younger brother he loved so much.
It was conflicting for the young Uchiha.
But in the end, he knew what was to be done.
"I see, that's what I wanted to hear. I'll need you to help me with my plans. Shisui, you're a very talented member to the point I trust that you're more capable than I am in many aspects. Your speed will help us gain the upper hand. We will demand for our right to be treated equally, we wont settle for being pushed to the edge of the village anymore."
Shisui did really understand why Fugaku was frustrated.
He didn't agree with the methods, but he did understand how he'd feel if he felt pushed away from the village that he grew up in and loved.
How the other clans weren't approaching them.
How the village gave them less and less duties, and importance to Konoha while other clans thrived within the village.
Down to the Nine Tails attack, and how they were blamed for it.
But Shisui still couldn't accept that this was the best way to finding the best solution.
As that was going on, Sugaru had come to the Uchiha Compound, and went towards Ryouta's home. Since it was late at night, Sugaru's mind believed that he might have the opportunity to do what Danzo had ordered him to do.
He stayed hidden, and made it to the house of Ryouta and Shisui.
It was a little distance away from others houses, due to how Fugaku had basically wanted that. It was perfect for Sugaru though, since he could do his duty without having to worry about many things like being ambushed.
Making it to the house, Sugaru wondered the best approach.
Sneaking in might be difficult, he knew Shisui would at least make sure that it would be nigh impossible for someone to sneak in without being alerted. Traps upon traps probably were around so Ryouta was safe. Maybe Shisui was even monitoring the house while not even being present somehow, through a clone or a summon he didn't know.
So he thought the next best thing was to go towards the door itself.
Going towards it, he knocked lightly.
He waited for a few seconds, before Ryouta opened the door.
"Sugaru-san, hello~"
Sugaru looked at the child...and was reminded of Shisui.
There were some key differences, but it was easy to see Shisui in Ryouta.
"Yes...is your brother here?"
"He shouldn't be long. Would you like to come in?"
Ryouta offered kindly.
Sugaru gazed upon the young boy, then gave a slight inclination with his neck.
"...Yes."
Ryouta smiled, and allowed him inside.
Sugaru stepped inside, and looked around.
He could see that Ryouta was alone.
"...How come, you're alone?"
"Izumi-chan's in her little lab, she's working on some kind of exam. I'm just polishing some of my tools, and sealing them within scrolls. Can I, get you some tea?"
"Water, would be fine."
Ryouta didn't really get Sugaru.
He spoke...a little bit off.
As if he didn't really feel much.
But he knew Shisui seemed to like Sugaru so he would be polite to the man with a slashed throat.
"Then please sit down anywhere you like. I'll get you some water."
Ryouta walked to the kitchen as Sugaru sat down in the living room.
His eyes went over the different areas of the living room.
He saw a number of pictures.
Mostly they were of Ryouta, and Shisui at various times in their shared lives.
Some of Ryouta as a baby, and Shisui holding him.
One seemed to be Ryouta as a three year old holding up Shisui's headband to his forehead, with Shisui behind him laughing.
One was of Izumi and Ryouta together, with Izumi's arms lovingly around his neck.
One was of Shisui and Itachi together.
One was of Satsuki and Ryouta together, by the ages they looked it seemed to be a recent picture.
There were more of them as well and more people with either of the brothers or both of them with others.
Sugaru couldn't help but note...how they really were a family.
A family that Danzo wished to tear apart.
"Here you go, Sugaru-san."
Ryouta presented Sugaru with the water, who accepted it.
Sugaru's eyes went towards Ryouta who sat down close by.
"So...are you here to go on a mission with Shi-chan?"
Sugaru shook his head.
"No...I'm here to see...if your brother...would like to train at some point..."
Ryouta felt like that was...a little off.
It didn't feel like it was something real.
"I-Is that so?"
"Yes...your brother is rather capable." Sugaru's eyes continued going over the boy, then towards the pictures again. "You...don't have parents. You...never knew your parents, did you?"
"No, I didn't know them."
"Does that...make you feel sad?"
Ryouta hummed for a few moments.
Then he answered.
"I don't feel sad...I mean, I do wish I had got to know them...but, I haven't known any different. Besides I have Shi-chan. He's always been like my parent and brother in one. He takes care of me...we take care of each other. I've only ever known...Shi-chan as my brother and parent."
"I see...I don't have a sibling. I did have a Father."
"I see...you don't anymore?"
"No, I don't have a Father. I killed him."
He revealed, Ryouta looked mildly surprised.
"O-Oh…"
"He tried to kill me...so, I had to defend myself."
Sugaru elaborated on.
Ryouta furrowed his brows.
"I also was...targeted by a member of my own clan. It wasn't my Father or brother...it was Yashiro Uchiha, he was...someone that wanted me to die. I know it isn't the same thing...but, I'm sorry that it happened to you. I understand...how it can feel to be betrayed and targeted like that."
Sugaru's facial expression didn't change.
But he did recall when Shisui said something similar.
Even now, he was feeling things that he shouldn't do…
No, he had a mission.
He began secretly releasing his insects, and had them go towards Ryouta.
His poison was a special kind of poison. They'd die quickly afterwards and would disappear so no one would be aware of the poison itself.
But, Sugaru did know of an antidote, so he'd give that to Ryouta, if Shisui was willing to hand over his eyes.
As his insects came closer and closer to Ryouta, the young boy felt something off.
"Do you hear a buzzing noise Sugaru-san?"
Sugaru shook his head.
"No, I do not hear a thing."
Ryouta eyed up Sugaru.
He wasn't sure what it was, but Sugaru was acting differently than usual.
Ryouta even used his Sharingan to check on his movements.
He seemed to be twitching ever so slightly, when he usually was so steady.
He could even see that he was silently pushing his fingers to his palms.
He wondered if he was nervous...but he didn't know if Sugaru could become nervous.
"...Are you okay Sugaru-san? You seem...as if something is wrong...?"
Sugaru looked like he usually did, stoic and silent.
But, on the inside, he was a little unsure of what to say.
He felt as if Ryouta was catching onto something that was wrong.
So, he tried to give a plausible explanation.
"It...might be the insects, inside of my body. The sound I mean. As an Aburame clan member, they host themselves within me. I don't really hear it...but, I've been told sometimes others might."
Sugaru offered, trying to sound as natural as he could.
If he made one wrong move, and Shisui acted somehow…
He didn't know if Shisui was around, or if he had someone or something watching Ryouta…
Shisui was that good at keeping things hidden like that.
So for all he knew, Shisui was carefully watching and if he made an aggressive move...then it could spell his end.
Ryouta wasn't sure if he believed it fully, since he had been with Sugaru before, and yet hadn't really heard it.
"Ooh, maybe it's that~ So, what's it like to have them inside of you?"
Sugaru shrugged.
"I've not known any different from the day I was born."
"Makes sense~" Ryouta said carefree like a child. "So Sugaru-san, you seem to really like being with my brother huh? He also told me that he likes spending time with you on missions, he said you're a bit hard to read, but you're really fun to be with."
Sugaru didn't think that Shisui spoke to Ryouta about him.
It only gave him more conflicting feelings within.
"...He's someone that I truly haven't been able to figure out. Being kind yet so skilled he'd be able to wipe out an army if he so desired. It's a quality that I really do have to admire. I, cannot understand him yet he's someone I do admire. It is quite the contradiction."
Ryouta chuckled lightly.
"I don't think so. It just means that you like Shi-chan and his capabilities as a Ninja. I also think Shi-chan is a very strong Ninja, and is really kind. I think that's a good way to live. Though he also understands that sometimes, you do have to kill...it's not something he likes...that's what makes Shi-chan really good in my eyes, that he can kill but isn't ruthless, yet he isn't weak either. It's the kind of Ninja that I want to be. Strong, but kind."
Sugaru was stunned by his words.
It felt as more time passes, he was speaking to Shisui.
But again, with some clear differences to them.
His mission shrunk within his mind.
Leaving more and more of his mind…
"No." Sugaru thought. "This is for Danzo-sama. I am emotionless. I have to be emotionless. To fulfil my duties. My relationship with Shisui ends here. I take this boy, then Shisui will have to surrender his eyes for Danzo-sama. Yes...I have to."
Sugaru tried convincing himself.
But over the weeks and months that Sugaru had gotten to know Shisui, he was beginning to tap into the emotions he thought were long dead.
Seeing an innocent child like Ryouta was sat beside him, he hadn't done anything wrong, yet he was supposed to poison him, and lure out the one person who had offered a hand of friendship towards him…
Shaking his head of those thoughts, he continued to allow his insects go towards Ryouta.
All he needed was one to infect him with poison, then he'd be done.
His job would be over.
The insects were inches from Ryouta's leg.
One move, and he'd be poisoned.
But then he stopped when he saw Ryouta's face.
Seeing the kindness and the innocence on the child's face...
Sugaru in a moment of unsure feelings...stopped his attack.
Even his insects stopped going towards Ryouta.
He was stunned long enough for the door to the back room to be opened.
Izumi came walking into the living room, and smiled as the insects were inches from the young boy.
"Oh, hello Sugaru-san. I didn't know you were here~"
"I didn't want to disturb you Izumi-chan, I knew you had a big exam coming up."
Izumi waved her hand as Sugaru withdrew his insects secretly.
"Hehe, that's really sweet~ Don't worry, it's fine~"
Sugaru looked between them, and saw that despite not actually being family, they interacted with one another so easily that it felt like they were family...
Feelings…
Sugaru didn't understand why this was happening to him.
Warmth was beginning to spread through him.
It often did so when Shisui talked.
Now these two also.
It was something he thought he had killed long ago.
His desire.
His emotions.
But they were coming back to life...and he wasn't sure on how to handle it.
He didn't even know if he liked feeling as he was.
Izumi could see that Sugaru was breathing rather abnormally.
"Sugaru-san...are you alright?"
At her words, Sugaru nodded a single time, trying to control his breathing.
"I have to go." Sugaru said, and stood up. "I'll...catch Shisui another time."
"Are you sure? He shouldn't be long."
Izumi expressed concern, seeing that Sugaru didn't look quite right. He seemed more pale than before.
Sugaru could feel something bubbling inside of him.
The warmth of a family was overcoming him.
He shook his head, denying his feelings, wanting to kill them for Danzo's sake who took him in after the events with his Father...but, this just felt wrong.
"No, I have some duties to...attend to anyway. Thank you, for the water. Have a nice evening."
Izumi and Ryouta cocked their heads as Sugaru made his exit.
"That was strange, wasn't it Ryou-kun?"
Ryouta slowly nods.
"Yes...very strange."
Ryouta tilted his neck, trying to understand what that was about.
Neither of them realizing how close they were to being poisoned for Danzo to gain Shisui's eyes.
Sugaru also hadn't believed it…
But he just defied Danzo.
In a moment, he made that decision…
He didn't know if he'd be able to make that decision a second time, knowing Danzo wouldn't quit.
He couldn't tell anyone, due to what Danzo had done to him as well.
Sugaru knew that he'd have to come back for Ryouta, for Danzo's sake...
What they weren't aware of was Tobi had been monitoring what had been going on.
Seeing Sugaru going near Ryouta...
He didn't like it.
He also had become aware Danzo had taken an interest, and he wouldn't allow Danzo to ruin his plans.
He knew that he'd have to be more careful.
He didn't want to be revealed just yet, but he knew Shisui was looking for him.
Shisui was skilled, Tobi realized that.
He would do anything it took to keep Ryouta safe.
Whatever he was going to do next...he knew he'd have to make a move soon or risk losing what he had been working hard for.
Tobi wasn't about to lose after he had put so much time and effort into his plans.
Meeting up with the elders of the village, without Itachi this time since he was going to be watched by other members of the Uchiha, Shisui was before them, respectfully on bended knee.
His eyes briefly met with Danzo who kept his old and disturbing stare upon the boy.
"...It seems that with him before me, Sugaru has failed. It seems that I might have to send more next time...but, why is he here now?"
Danzo wondered, but didn't have to for long as Shisui spoke up.
"Hokage-sama, as we have spoken about before...I'd like to explain my thoughts about that now. That, and what Uchiha have been doing lately."
"Yes of course, please speak your mind."
"Yes...it seems that Uchiha are going to be moving within the next few weeks."
The council had sour faces, while Hiruzen looked displeased, and a little upset.
"...So, it is going to come down to that."
"We have to act now." Danzo spoke up. "Time for peace has come to an end. We have to end Uchiha before they end us."
Shisui didn't like how he jumped to that instantly.
"Wait...please, there's another solution. Hear me out."
"Speak then, boy."
Danzo said with a cold tone.
Shisui explained what had been going on, with the Uchiha, with the coup, and with Itachi as well. Danzo didn't look pleased in the slightest, he believed that Hiruzen wasn't acting fast enough, and pondered if he should begin making his own move for the sake of the village, at least that's how he attempted to convince himself he was doing the right thing.
"...So, that's your decision, Shisui-kun?"
Hiruzen began, seeing the seriousness on Shisui's face.
Shisui inclines his neck.
"Yes, I'll use my Kotoamatsukami on Fugaku-san, and have him stop the coup. That way, both sides can benefit. The clan will stop, and Konoha can be safe. It's the best solution that I can give."
Danzo's lone eye widened ever so slightly.
He tried to hide his feelings, but it was clear in his eye that he was annoyed.
"If that's what you have decided, then I'll fully support you in your endeavours."
Danzo wasn't as supportive as Hiruzen, and wanted to voice his thoughts.
But held back, and listened to Shisui.
"I believe it would be the best way for us to avoid the most disastrous. If the Uchiha continue, then it could cause a lot of pointless death. The Uchiha aren't evil at the core. They have negative feelings, and are going about this the wrong way...I wish to make a future where Uchiha and Konoha can co-exist like it was supposed to be."
"I agree. Then I'll leave the timing for you Shisui, it might be difficult getting close to Fugaku-san on his own and manipulating him."
Shisui was glad that at least Hiruzen was on his side.
He knew Danzo wasn't and the other two were merely followers of Danzo, so they'd side with him most of the time if not all of the time.
"Thank you. I shall do it within this weeks end, I'll do my best to accomplish this task for you Hokage-sama."
"You're willing to manipulate your own clan?"
Danzo brought up.
Shisui resisted the urge to sigh at the sight of the old man.
"...Yes, it's not a decision I came to so easily. I do not like that this is the reality before me, but for the sake for my clan, for the sake of my little brother to grow up in a better world, and have an easier life...I'll do what I can Danzo-sama."
Danzo withheld a growl that was threatening to escape his mouth.
"...And if it fails?"
"I wont fail, Danzo-sama. I'll make sure of it."
Danzo inhaled slowly.
"...I see, so you've decided this from the depths of your heart."
"Your words, it feels as if you're...holding something back? Is there something wrong?"
"Of course not, I just want what's best for the village."
Danzo snapped back.
But Shisui knew better.
"As do I Danzo-sama. That, and to also make sure that Uchiha are able to thrive, and my brother gets to experience...many things. I wouldn't want him to become collateral damage within a war between Uchiha and the village. It needs to end, and I can do that the most peacefully."
Hiruzen agreed whole heartedly with what Shisui was saying.
Danzo...wasn't on the same page.
He couldn't allow it to happen.
He didn't believe that it would work at all.
Shisui's eyes...Danzo believed that they belonged with the wrong person.
He wouldn't allow Shisui to use the eyes that he didn't deem necessary.
He, wouldn't allow his plans to go down the drain.
And he wouldn't lose the opportunity to claim the eyes for himself.
Danzo...was ready to enact his plan to gain the power of Kotoamatsukami, and to rid Shisui of this world.
This time, he wouldn't fail...
End chapter!
Shisui had a few things he was doing, spending time with Ryouta, trying to find hints and clues about Tobi, all the while wrestling with himself, and how he'd use Kotoamatsukami on Fugaku to end the coup, something that Danzo is firmly against and wants for himself. Danzo even sent Sugaru to poison Ryouta, but his conscience kicked in, and he just couldn't in the end, though with Danzo pulling his strings, he might not be able to have a choice next time, along with Danzo seemingly testing Ryouta a little bit there with having someone impersonate an Academy student to test his skills. Ryouta also is learning more from Shisui about Genjutsu, how to dispell it quickly and recognize it with his Sharingan, and perhaps a few other things from Shisui.
With Shisui attempting to use his Mangekyou power to stop the coup, Danzo isn't going to allow that to happen, so what he's going to do...we'll very soon be seeing!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei,