Itachi's problem
6
Fate – the development of events beyond a person's control as determined by some sort of power.
Fate.
It was practically Itachi's middle name!
With the power and wealth bestowed upon his family at the dawn of time, he could alter events in almost anybody's life and rarely needed assistance in doing so. However, sometimes, help was required and Itachi wasn't above asking for it in those rare and extremely unique circumstances. Which this one seemed to be, as annoying as it was.
Almost a full year has passed since the fateful Christmas soiree – a year full of suffering through unsuccessful attempts to arrange a meeting between Sasuke and Naruto. After a thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis of his methods, Itachi could come up with only one possible explanation of such consistent lack of success – deficiency in relative perspective. Perhaps, he was too close to his little brother and focused mostly on him, when he should have paid a bit more attention to the other man in this intricate equation. As such, to help achieve his goal, Itachi needed a fresh set of eyes and brilliant mind to match his own – all that and a unique insight—or, rather, access—to the scientist. There was only a handful that could fit this description.
First, there was Nara – a prodigy known through the whole university and, probably, beyond. Instead of conquering the world with his unfathomable perception and native wit, he decided to dedicate his life to Konoha Observatory. As a mechanic. While certainly possessing unique access to the scientist of interest, he lacked the drive Itachi required for the operation. So, he wouldn't do.
Then, there was Hyuuga - a valuable member of the great Hyuuga family that owned one of the largest law firms in Japan. His genius was famous and without a doubt, Uchiha could benefit from Neji's perspective. He also was quite close but not too close to Naruto, as both worked through the nights in their respective labs. However, Itachi's recent intel showed hostility between the scientists - the cause unknown, but it could pose a threat, potentially, or, at the very least, a biased opinion that could be just as harmful to his plans. As such, he wouldn't do either.
There were also, surprisingly, old high school classmates of Itachi's within Naruto's circle—Hidan and Deidara—but they weren't as closely positioned as he needed his contact to be. Plus, back in school, Hidan's intellectual abilities left much to be desired and Itachi had very valid doubts that this has changed.
There was one other person, who was in a position much less obvious but close enough, which was an opportunity too good to pass. For sure, that was it.
Itachi let a lazy smile out as he dialled a number.
"I have a rather curious business proposition. Would you join me for a meal tonight?"
AN: Before I post another chapter, leave a comment if you guessed just who exactly Itachi decided to give a call! All clues are in the main story, of course :)
