*Happy Holidays everyone. I hope you've all enjoyed the Holidays and had an eventful New Years eve! I'm back and hitting you guys with another chapter, which I must say was extremely annoying to write. I actually wrote this in random intervals since the last Update, like I said I've been very busy. Thankfully, I'm out until next semester, so the next chapter should be expected before the end of January. Let's hope this chapter is up to standards, though I must say this is probably one of my least favorite installments. Yay!
In His Own Right:
Chapter 23:
The canopies above chirped with the sounds of birds and small forest creatures below. The air was warm and humid; and the forest dark, as streams of light penetrated the expansion of leaves above barely making the inners of the forest visible. Sasuke was calm, calmer than he probably should have been. His eyes taking note of the darkness around him, his mind still heavy in thought. His situation was not among the best, as a matter of fact, it was possibly one of the worse scenario you could find yourself stuck in. Two presumably dangerous S-class shinobi pressed against his breath, both presumed to be extremely hostile and skilled. Maybe he should feel honored? Sasuke Held his sword pointing it at the masked Akatsuki member, while at the same time reminding himself to be cautious of Kisame behind him. And then his thoughts ran back to the masked man's words.
What did he just say?
"A proposition?" Sasuke questioned, Kisame's looming figure coming closer. He remained cautious of both men but his curiosity was definitely peaked.
"Yes, you should feel flattered, Sasuke." The shark man stated. A heavy lung filled chuckle bearing into his ears. Tobi moved forward. Sasuke pressed his sword making sure the man knew he wasn't very fond –which is an understatement– of his presence
"Oh yes, a proposal if you would."
His words came out smooth and knowing, almost condescendingly. Whatever this man wanted couldn't have possibly been good, nor could it have any positive benefits towards Sasuke. Could it? He shook his head, clearing those thoughts from his mind. They were hostile. Angry or not he was still a shinobi of the leaf, he would act accordingly. He just needed backup. He looked towards the trees above staring at the sun and determining the position of the sun in relevance to time. A patrol should be in close proximity if they were on time, which they usually were. He could wait out until then.
Or dispose of them himself. Or better yet, listen...
"Whatever proposal you've got in mind, I'm not interested in it." In that moment, Sasuke ignited his katana in a blaze of blue-white electricity, the dark forest illuminated in Blue, his Sharingan glowing with anger.
"So quick to dismiss my words without even hearing what I have to offer."
Sasuke was quick to respond. "I have no interest in your offer."
"Surely you'd want to learn a way to become more powerful."
The boy's ears perked upwards at this.
Yes… No.
"I'm fully aware of how powerful the container of the Kyuubi's become and clearly you've noticed it, not many people can best Pain. And you want the power to defeat your rival. How important is it really to you, Sasuke?"
Sasuke kept his mouth closed but he gave the man his undivided attention.
"I can help you obtain power, strength and better control of the Sharingan. Tell me, are you aware of this." He stared at Sasuke and for a moment the boy was confused just staring into the supposed Madara's Sharingan eyes, until suddenly the black camas began to swirl, his eyes going through a metamorphosis. He narrowed his black orbs, realizing exactly what they were, he had read about the Mangekyo Sharingan. Izumi had informed him that in order to obtain such power you'd have to suffer the pain of loss and feel the weight of great emotion. He watched almost memorized, it only causing him to hold more malice towards his foes.
And them...
"Your sister has this power, and so does your cousin. And it's one of the things that make them strong. Sasuke, I can help you obtain this power and from their.. more. I can help you surpass your sister and more importantly, the Kyuubi!"
The forest around him seemed become dead quiet. He found his eyes wandering past Tobi's mask and more so towards the dark background of the forest. The electricity dancing on his sword being the most imminent source of light, polluting any other sources of light including the Sun. Tobi's one eye reflected each flare of electricity and Sasuke at that moment could see the man's eyes, the shinobi of the leaf decoded the stare, their eyes meeting. It held ambition, it held motivation, and most of all deep within those crimson orbs it held hatred.
He found himself questioning what had exactly prompted this man to seek out Sasuke? There was more to his presence than good graces and simply wishing to help, he was a criminal after all. He didn't truly just want to help Sasuke out of charity. Sasuke found himself curiously wondering and analyzing this Madara Uchiha. His eyes were genuine, though there was a definite and absolute reasoning behind this. Did he truly need him, had the death of Pain really hurt the Akatsuki in such a manner? He figured they were short on members, but the question that irked Sasuke the most. Why him and not someone more powerful?
"Will you join us?" The masked shinobi's hand came outwards, raising towards Sasuke.
"What makes you think I'd want help from you?" Sasuke's voice was rough and threatening.
"This boy irritates me, can I kill him?" The shark skinned shinobi pressed his sword closer. "My sword is thirsty for new blood, anyhow."
Sasuke's hand ran backward, the sword coming with it. "I'd like to see you try!"
"With pleasure, just give me the word." Kisame's eyes fell on Tobi's mask. "Can I?"
"Kisame, stand down for a moment." The shark man looked up rather disappointed but obliged nonetheless, his sword falling to his side. Sasuke's went back to Tobi.
"I can find my own way, I don't need any of your help."
Madara moved again, and Sasuke immediately thrust his sword into the man. Damn it! The blade entered through the man as if he weren't even there. Tobi rose his one Sharingan eye from within his mask as if to say 'really?'. Of course, the weapon would pass through him. The man walked through Sasuke, ending up behind him and standing in front of Kisame.
"You don't, you say?"
"I can find my own way. And I'll kill you two if that's what's necessary."
...or die trying. But wouldn't it be beneficial?
The self-proclaimed Madara laughed. "If you believe you can do so in your current state." He moved closer his mask leaning towards the Uchiha's ear. "Then do it."
Sasuke growled, the man was undermining him, as a matter of fact, he was underestimating him. "You'd be surprised at what I'm capable of."
He laughed at Sasuke again, Kisame remained silent but smirked. "We could kill you right now if we wanted."
Sasuke gripped his weapon. "Try it!"
"I thought you'd never ask!" He felt the tension escape from Kisame, the blue skinned man raised his weapon. He swung the sword hard and downwards towards the boy. Sasuke rose his weapon, ready to deflect the attack from the larger man. The sound of a heavy object crashing into another object rang, the quiet forest echoing with this noise. The slam echoed for a long simmer of time, before slowly dying. Sasuke stood, his sword still upwards but his eyes staring surprised. The masked ninja held his hand on the wrapped blade of the sword. Sasuke quietly admired this, the man held the weapon known as sharkskin by its spiky structure. He had done his little research on Kisame and was aware of his status as a former swordsman of the mist. Kisame was a renowned shinobi for all the most negative reasons, but powerful. This man, this Madara, there was more to him. Sasuke had to admit, he was curious.
"Let's not do that Kisame. We are here for one purpose, and persuasion is tedious",
Madara released the weapon pushing it backwards and Kisame let out a low grunt of discontentment. Sasuke's head pounded. His eyes still crimson and his sword still abundant with electricity. Was he strong enough to fight these two at the same time if needed? The question was stupid, he already knew the answer. No, he was not. That was the mere reality of the situation, this Madara alone could probably end his existence. And Kisame, he wasn't in the Akatsuki for no reason. All anger from before subsided in the now severely dangerous circumstances he was in. Sasuke was a top tier shinobi, among the top Jounin and probably stronger than all shinobi within the village with the exception of a few. The point was that Sasuke was powerful, and could go blow to blow with the most powerful shinobi the world could offer. Yet, still, he felt a bit uneasy after the demonstration of Madara's ability to stop Kisame's attack with ease. The angered shinobi didn't show it, but instead stood bravely with his weapon drawn and pride still intact.
"I'm not changing my opinion." He stated boldly.
Madara just turned his head, as if he were a dog with a questionable gaze. His one eye continued to reflect the blue-white electricity. His hands came up, as if he were telling him to calm down.
"Sasuke, I know that look in your eyes. It's a look of desire. I know what you desire most. Power!",
Sasuke continued to stare the man down, not showing fear, but a small drop of sweat ran lightly down his face.
Power. Strength. You want it!
"Do you truly believe that your Sister is for you...After all, she did lie to you. She isn't to be trusted."
The buzzing of his sword went off like static. It continued to keep them within the light, keeping the shadows on their toes and away from the three. He remained silent, a single click of his tongue escaping his mouth.
"Yes, I know all about the would-be massacre. Izumi consulted me for assistance in the entire thing. At the time I had not realized that she had been ordered to do so, but she always did seem rather unusually distant from me and my invitations.",
He kept his mouth closed, steering his eyes from Kisame and back to Tobi. He had consulted Izumi before? She had asked him to aid her?
"I also know about that little thing with the container of the Kyuubi and your sister. The lies you were kept from. Yes, your anger wasn't only due to discovering them being intimate, it was a combination of events and the competitor inside you. I know, you did it in anger, but it was also a comparison for you. You fought so vigorously because you in fact realized. That Naruto Uzumaki is stronger than you."
His fists curled around the hilt of his sword, a rush of energy rushing through his body. It was an impulse, it was his nerves. They ordered him to attack, to punish this man for spitting such things. For stating the truth, for knowing something that Sasuke wished not to accept. For knowing, somehow he knew! He glared with steel in his heart, but his brain proved to be stronger. If he were to attack he would be met with nothing more than the irritation of passing straight through the man. Maybe, he could attack Kisame and land a fatal blow on the pale blue man, but Sasuke doubted Madara would take kindly to Sasuke killing one of his fellow members.
"I can see more within your eyes. Not only do I see anger, but I also see motivation, hatred, and vengeance."
Sasuke scoffed at his words. "You know little about my intentions. Thank you for the offer but I'll pass."
But Madara didn't let up, Sasuke could feel the intensity that was emanating from him. He was stern in his posture. Every word that was coming out if this man's mouth was coming out as if it were fact. He continued.
"Danzo committed an unforgivable sin, if only you knew at the time, then you could have killed him already. It's unfortunate."
He retorted instantly. "I can defeat Danzo on my own!" He moved back, this time angling his Katana at his side at a state of readiness.
"Enough talk, enough bullshit!", Sasuke spat his words turning to the two Akatsuki members. "I'm no criminal, what you're asking of me is treason! I'm no traitor and as far as I'm concerned you two are my enemy!",
"You don't want the power of the Mangekyou; how do you ever expect to defeat Naruto without it?",
That struck a nerve. He was reminded again that he had fallen behind. Naruto had what could be considered a steroid to his power, the Kyuubi and it's power created a huge gap between their strength. The Mangekyo would definitely help even the playing field, possibly. He bit the inside of his cheek, as he contemplated Tobi's words. His sister had it, and his cousin had it. The power of the Mangekyo, both had face terror and emotional stress that had pushed them to unlock the great power. He eyed both the Akatsuki members, the electricity conducting through the metal blade of his katana. Air rushed out of his mouth.
"The Mangekyo Sharingan is achieved when a member of the Uchiha is subjected to extreme emotional stress, correct?" Tobi nodded and Sasuke for a second thought he could feel a smile from the masked.
"Correct, Sasuke.",
A Deep breath and a buzz of curiosity.
"Then what do I have to do to feel such emotion?" As soon as he asked the question he knew he would regret the answer.
The air around them seemed to thicken, becoming rip ambition and interest. The sky was beginning to darken significantly. The three held their mouths closed for what seemed to be a long minute. Sasuke waited patiently, honestly pondering whether he would get an answer or not. Tobi's eye narrowed, the shadows falling over the man's orange mask completely engulfing his face, his presence only acknowledged by his silent yet audible breathing. The birds didn't chirp and the creatures of the forest were silent. Nothing made a noise, the wind didn't blow and again the only thing audible was their breathing. Finally, he received his answer.
"Kill someone you love."
Both the elders sat predominantly calm, both their elder faces littered in wrinkles keeping their mouths closed for a moment. Izumi returned their stares, though curiosity soon mustered within the two elders' eyes.
"We accept your decision, but I'm curious as to the reason for your declinal." Homura rested a hand on his chin.
"If I had no other choice I would, by all means, take the position. But, why do so when there are multiple and better candidates."
"You don't believe yourself to be the best candidate?"
She disagreed with a shake of her head. "Not that I do not think I'm suitable, by all means, no. Actually, I believe that I am simply needed elsewhere."
Homura clicked his tongue while shaking his head. "If not you then we'll go ahead and push for Kakashi-san." He paused, giving Izumi his best stare. She replied with her own questionable one. He then continued. "However, you must know that the Kage expect you to be at the summit."
"I figured as much." Tsunade had, after all, put her ahead of operation Ending Dawn.
"Izumi you must do whatever it takes to make sure the other villages are aware that are still strong."
His words came out commanding as if he were giving her a mission of the sorts. "I understand."
"The meeting is expected Monday next-next week."
Izumi gave her elders a nod and a quick bow, preparing herself to leave.
"Izumi wait." She stopped.
Homura moved from his spot. "Danzo had help escaping during the invasion. Someone has committed treason and needs to be punished."
"Some of his root officials escape also?"
"That is correct." He answered.
"Someone in the ranks of Anbu is a traitor." She explained obviously.
"These are dire times Izumi, we need to be on the balls of our feet at all times. We must be precise in our movements and as reserved as possible."
"I understand."
The man as old as the third Hokage nodded. "It is imperative that Danzo is captured, but the discovery of this snake in our ranks is just as equivalent."
She agreed, wondering to herself just who could have possibly allowed that man to escape. Who was the traitor? He would have to be among the ranks of Anbu? Someone she knew, maybe? All she knew, was that they'd find out soon enough.
"As well as defeating the Akatsuki. Izumi, these are dire times for not only our village but, the shinobi world. We cannot allow Naruto to be taken."
She turned preparing herself to leave. "I didn't plan it." She said not turning back, deeming the conversation over. She calmly walked away, as she contemplated the things circling her head the most. Akatsuki, she wouldn't dare let them take Naruto, she would protect him no matter the cost, even if it mean giving her own existence in exchange.
And Sasuke… he just needed to accept how things were. After all, she had to introduce Naruto to her family.
The sky was dark as the clouds seemed to swell in gray, it would rain without a doubt. It had been a say since the incident and two days since the invasion. The village hidden in the leaves was busy with construction clean up, the damages that had been sustained to the village with the invasion of Pain seeming to cripple the village, yet at the same time, it tightened their strength.
Sasuke's parents had not been happy about the news of him and Naruto's fight. Destroying his house and puncturing a hole in the street was a bit drastic, yes Sasuke agreed. But, he had been consumed by anger and he still felt it, the anger within him and resentment towards his best friend and Sister. But he had accepted his punishments accordingly, allowing them to deduct the reparations from his paycheck, he cared little about the currency anyways. He had not informed them of the reasons for his actions other than his rivalry with Naruto. It was better than way, telling his parents such a thing wouldn't benefit him. And it was simply… just awkward.
The skies began to tear, a small drizzle falling over the village. Sasuke took in a deep breath thinking over a few events such as his actions to allow the two Akasuki members to walk away without a fight. How dare they approach him and make such an offer? They thought he needed them to gain power. They were sadly mistaken if they thought he was so weak and misguided. Maybe he should have reported them long ago, or even engaged in a battle to possibly attract the attention of a roaming patrol. But he did neither, he let them go. Why did he do that? His eyes stared upwards as droplets fell from the sky as the heaven wept lightly. The dark clouds glowed with lightning before growling lightly.
He had not talked to Naruto or Izumi since. And maybe it was better that way. He had overreacted, he had become angry irrationally and went about things completely wrong. He admitted this. However, he still refused to compromise. His pride simply wouldn't allow it. Albeit, something in his head told him he should let it all go and be happy for his sister and best friend, but another part of him ordered him to be stubborn. It was a mental war within the boy and truthfully Sasuke wasn't sure what to do. So he would avoid conversation or any interaction with them for the time being. At least until he could clear his mind.
Soft footsteps splashing into newly placed puddles caught his attention, a flock of pink and a small hood covering her head. There was no mistaking the emerald green eyes of Sakura.
He moved in her direction, walking slowly as if the rain had no effect on him. "Sakura." He called her name.
She stopped suddenly before turning around and making complete eye contact. He watched as some sort of metamorphosis took place within her eyes. Sasuke wondered what she was thinking, specifically about him of course.
"Sasuke-kun." She breathed out and the two met half way. He gazed her up in down taking in the small windbreaker she wore and the small briefcase with a red crossed symbol across it. He noted this.
"Medical work?" He said obviously.
She nodded. "Just some extra syringes. Nothing too serious, we have plenty but this is just a precaution.",
"Ah, I see".
She seemed a bit nervous, her feet digging into the concrete floor. She wanted to talk, and he knew exactly what...or rather who it was about.
"You wanna chastise me too, huh?" He sighed.
"Not really."
"Hm."
"..." a moment of silence.
"How could you be so stupid!?" She suddenly blurted out causing him to jump backwards.
Typical Sakura.
He looked at her.
"You could have seriously hurt someone…" she exaggerated with a hand gesture. "..you could have hurt each other, you could have hurt some random civilian walking by. Shit, so what if Izumi and Naruto have this random relationship! Naruto, Shisui, Kakashi, Shizune, Yamato and Izumi were out there worried about your well being and in all honesty your mental state!"
He grunted, and sighed simultaneously. "I don't need you to scold me, my parents made damn sure I was aware of my mistake! I have to pay retributions and apparently I have to have an audience with both the village elders and clan over my childish actions." She seemed to mellow a bit at his words. "I'll have enough people scolding me. I understand that I was being stupid and childish, but I was just angry. I still am angry, but I just didn't understand. Why would they keep such a thing from me? Why is it that I had to uncover the truth through the most degrading way possible? It hurt my pride to see that and it also hurt my trust, Sakura. I know I seem like some type of villai–"
"You're not a villain, Sasuke." She interrupted. He gazed at her, before sighing, but continued nonetheless. "But, I had it! I felt insignificant, not only because of those two dating but also because I was well aware of what Naruto had become."
Remember what he said.
"What Naruto had become?" She moved closer to him, curious. He felt his head throb a bit, and he sighed. He bit his tongue causing it to sting as he allowed his feelings to come off in words.
"He had become better than me. Possibly the strongest ninja in the village, maybe even stronger than Shisui and Izumi. And knowing this fact ate away at me, shit it still eats away at me! I'm angry, and I can't do anything about it, except train and still I find myself behind! I attacked him out of spite, yes. But, also out of curiosity, I wanted to know what he was made of; I wanted him to show my that Kyuubi mode and the power he truly posed. I didn't care about anyone else!", he stopped, as he felt his brain begin to swell, his hands clasped slowly, the pressure causing his palms to bleed. Then suddenly he stopped, taking in a deep breath. "But, during the fight, while I was putting in close to maximum effort." He stopped, a tsst noise emanating from his mouth. "He didn't even bother to transform. He didn't think of me as a viable enough threat! And there I was fighting him, making a complete fool of myself trying to take the boy with a tailed beast steroid!" He cringed at his words, feeling weak for expressing his emotions. He squeezed his palm so tight that blood leaked from his hands.
"Sasuke…" she noticed.
"No, he disregarded my power. He disregarded me! I admit it he's achieved power that completely overshadows my
own, the fucking Dobe.", The rain seemed to intensify, corresponding with his anger itself. Lightning struck off in the distance thunder following closely behind.
"I'm sure Naruto was only thinking about everyone's well being. You know he was only being selfless.",
"Tsst." He let air part his lips.
"He didn't want to fight you, he didn't want to fight anyone! He just wanted to talk and apologize he feels extremely bad. Sasuke, he's your best friend."
Remember what he said.
"Yeah, my best friend wouldn't even tell me that he was dating my sister.." He turned. "That's something you just don't do, you know that right? You don't date your close friend's siblings at least without their blessing, it's a breach of trust.",
Remember what he said.
Sakura shook her head, before eyeing the case in her hand. She approached him but stopped halfway, that same gleam in her eyes. He gave her his best blank expression. He wasn't mad at her, how could he?
"Look Sasuke. I don't mean to brush this off but, I have to return to the medical tents, I'm needed."
Remember what he said.
"Hm." He stated, she smiled. "We'll talk then, over tea." She latched onto him, catching him off guard as she encased his being with her arms resting her face on his chest. He stepped back gazing down at the much shorter girl, a bit surprised at her sudden display of affection. Nonetheless, he returned the embrace, replying with an equal hug, resting his chin on her head. He could see a smile develop on her face, it felt right. It was short and the two finally broke apart, she gazed at him innocently her emerald green eyes shining. "We'll talk."
And with that, the short pink haired girl was gone.
Remember...
He stood there by himself in alone in the middle of the rain filled village. The rain drops hitting his face and drenching his black silky hair. He stood eyeing her previous position. "Yes, I remember." He finally replied softly to himself.
The ran was a soft drizzle.
Izumi had returned from a short session of kunai practice and afterward found herself feeling useless and felt she needed to make an appearance somewhere, or rather do something. She stopped her journey through the village under reconstruction, as gray caught her eyes.
The former Anbu captain scratched his head as Izumi watched him leave the Elder's tent.
"Kakashi." She acknowledged.
"So, it was you who recommended me?"
She crossed her arms over her black Uchiha shirt. "You were already at the top of their list, I simply stated that you'd be a very good candidate."
"Why did you decline?" He said this removing that sexual descriptive book from his pouch. She ignored it.
"My expertise are needed elsewhere." She replied.
"Oh, I see. You'd rather be on the front lines than in front of a desk all the time."
She smirked. "That's part of it."
"And what makes you think I won't decline?" Silence came, followed by stillness in the wind. He rose his one visible eye and gazed into Izumi's obsidian.
"Because not only are the elders asking you, but I'm asking you, the village is asking you. In my honest opinion, you are the perfect candidate, an admirable shinobi in every right. You declining a job when you're possibly the best for person for it, just isn't in your nature."
He gazed upwards from his book with a black emotion in his eye, then he gave her his signature eye smile. "That's nice of you to say, it's not often that someone gets compliments like that from Anbu captain Izumi Uchiha. Naruto's been rubbing off on you."
She shrugged. "Maybe that's for the better."
"I accepted their proposal. Izumi, I will be the sixth Hokage if all goes according to plan."
There was an awkward silence that followed, Kakashi seeming to become too embedded into his book and Izumi just standing there doing absolutely nothing. She eyed him for a moment, though it seemed as if he were finished with the conversation as a whole and was just quickly finishing up a page before leaving.
"Have you spoken with Sasuke?"
He removed his head from his book. "Your baby brother? I have not, sadly. He's been incognito since yesterday."
"Ah."
"Don't fret, He'll get over it Izumi. He's just being difficult...You know, Sasuke things." Kakashi said going back to his book, seeming to become extremely interested with a certain portion or page.
"My brother has a lot of growing up to do."
"That he does." He agreed. "I'm sure he's been thinking over everything and is only shutting you out because of his confusion."
She nodded, it made sense. "I agree."
"Don't feel bad, he looks up to you and wants to surpass your shadow." He looked her in the eye.
"Which is what I always wanted!" She defended, allowing her emotions to get the better of her. "And I would want nothing more than for my little brother to surpass me in both power and wisdom!"
Air passed through the masked ninja's mouth in the form of a whistle. "He's already surpassed me, I'd say he's almost there. I can see him getting there Izumi. Give him time and don't put too much thought into it, he looks at you very highly. This whole entire thing, he'll get over it.
Kakashi made eye contact and swiftly went back to his book. "He realizes that Naruto outclasses him.", Izumi commented.
"Right, and it places a gap in their rivalry, and you know how seriously some people take rivalries; look at Guy for example."
"And being with Naruto made things worse." She said, slightly feeling guilty.
"Uhuh." He didn't look up from the book, but she knew he could multi-task. "Which reminds me. How did that happen anyway?"
Her forehead adjusted upwards in question. "I and Naruto as significant others?" She placed a hand on her hip.
"Yeah that." He turned a page nonchalantly.
"He caught my attention." She shrugged. "His presence alone lifts my mood and I've never met anyone who has made such an impact on my being in such a short amount of time. I took your relationship advice, Senpai." It came out as more of a joke that both could relate to.
He lifted his head, his face looking towards her at the mention of the name Senpai. She smirked, something she hadn't called him in years. The gray-haired shinobi was honestly surprised at her antics.
"Senpai? When was the last time you've called me that?" He gave her a curious gaze.
"Since you were my captain and Anbu mentor."
He flipped through a page.
"Ah, good times." He stated this rather nonchalantly. "Well isn't this just a little nostalgic trip. And thinking about it even you've surpassed me, and at the mere age of 11 no less."
She regarded him with a smirk. "I don't think it was that early."
"Nevertheless, you surpassed me at such a young age."
"Your training helped."
"And now look at you, it's amazing just thinking about your first day of Anbu. Everyone doubted that a little 11-year-old girl who still should have been in the academy could handle the stress of Anbu. And, did you prove them completely wrong." He stated but surprisingly kept reading his book. She stared completely speechless as Kakashi continued. "I've seen you mature into the shinobi you are today, and it makes me realize how old I'm getting. You calling me senpai just brought these thoughts back to my head." He paused, as he completely lifted his masked face from the book and shut it with one hand. "But also, it's made me realize that even though those closest to me have passed, I still have others." His speech paused, as he continued to think, and possibly formulate the correct placement of words. "Izumi…" another pause, the copy ninja making sure Izumi was paying attention. "Obito's dream I see it in Naruto, please help me preserve it. I think you are exactly what he needs.",
She was silent, amazed at the drastic turn the conversation had taken. Izumi stood still, just staring at the copy ninja. She wasn't sure how to respond to his words and his way of saying that he approved. And bringing up Obito, a subject that the Uchiha knew was an uncomfortable one for the Copy-Ninja. She felt honored by his statement.
"Obito's dream? I see." She looked to the sky soft droplets of rain fall upon her face and lightly rolling down in small rivers. "Kakashi, I promise you, I will take care of him.
It was also a promise to herself.
The rain had let up.
Construction of the village sounded off near and in the far distance. She had assumed that eventually, people would
lose interest in their relationship, after all, it had been a few days. However, Izumi underestimated the power of drama and gossip. Not that it was so much drama but Naruto and Izumi's was definitely a great topic for gossip. What amplified this interest and gossip more was definitely the kiss she had forced onto him. Which of course he did not reject. The glances and stares did not go unnoticed by the village's very own hero either.
"So, how mad was Mikoto-san at Sasuke and I?"
"More Sasuke than you, but yeah she's a bit angry with you."
"Fugaku?"
"He cares more about us being a couple."
Naruto looked down in disappointment. "Ugh, so not only is Sasuke mad at me but Mikoto-san? She's so nice!"
"My father's a little angry at you too." She stated in jester. His head fell lower, and she laughed lightly. "They won't bring it up… too much."
"Do you really think now is the best time to go over to your house?"
She nodded. "It's best we introduce them as soon as possible." Her parents weren't too angry, but they were significantly upset with Naruto. Her mother more for the damage to the house, her father for other reasons, but he was very strange his antics considering a relationship or rather someone to court was something he wanted for her.
"You won't have to talk to Sasuke, he's already been reprimanded for his actions anyways. Don't worry about him, he'll have to accept us eventually." She didn't even know where he was at the moment. Naruto smirked but she could feel the obvious uneasy feeling coming off of him.
"The wall is almost finished, one day isn't bad. And the window should be installed by tomorrow afternoon."
He gave out a low huff. "Fugaku-san is going to give me the death stare the whole entire time isn't he?"
She paused thinking over it for a moment. "It's likely...probably actually."
Another groan escaped his mouth, he didn't seem like he was looking for this.
"It won't be too bad, Naruto-kun. I mean, if he didn't like you I'm sure he wouldn't have agreed to let me bring you over." She assured confidently.
"Yeah." It wasn't the normal Enthusiastic voice of the sporadic blond.
She grabbed his hand as she watched the boy's eyes do a complete run up of her figure. "Everything will be completely fine." she smiled, red falling on her face, as again emotions she had rarely been exposed to surfaced. She couldn't believe what this guy was doing to her. nonetheless, it was a positive and exciting feeling the coursed through her blood.
"Act as you would normally.",
They finally made it to the Uchiha compound, Naruto seemed to even himself up a bit, taking a deep breath. It wouldn't be long before they reached her home, her mother would be delighted to see Naruto as her official significant other, it was a step in the right direction. Her Father would share the same sentiments but, keep his greeting more formal and less delightful than her mother. Izumi already had an image of how it would go. Thankfully, Naruto was someone that her parents had known for some time and actually approved of. It took moments but they finally made it to the Uchiha mansion, She nodded to Naruto as she withdrew her keys. "It is no different from the other times. Just now, you're with me instead of Sasuke."
"And me!"
They turned, finding Shisui behind them more than likely appearing out of absolutely nowhere.
"Shisui…" she stated blandly but allowed a small layer of venom lace her tongue.
"Calm down, shit. I'm here dropping off groceries for Aunt Mikoto. Since her, two children are never around long enough to do chores for her." He held up a bag of groceries. "I want no paws in your lovers family introduction, just wanna be a witness."
She nodded. "No smart remarks or comments. Stay in your own business. You know how Father feels about your uncensored choice of vocabulary and irritating choice of statements."
"Oh, Izumi you don't give me enough credit."
"You don't deserve any."
Naruto let out a low laugh, and Shisui gave a sigh. With that, she unlocked the door and the three entered, meeting an aroma of food being cooked. The three walked guiding themselves into the kitchen where undoubtedly there stood Mikoto cooking her heart away on the gas stove.
Of course, she knew of their presence long before they even entered. She turned from the pots and pans and smiled, instantly moving over to Naruto and hugging him. "Look at the village's very own Hero! You saved us all, Naruto! You're so strong!"
"I'm happy to see you too Mikoto-san, thank-you." He became red in both modesty and from strangulation. Izumi watched his mother squeeze his entire soul out of his body. "After all these years who would think that you would end up with Izumi." She let him go, allowing her bright smile to widen to the ends of her cheeks. "Kami, at one point we thought that she wasn't even interested in men."
Shisui laughed. "You and Fugaku too, huh?"
Izumi objected. "Mother! Shisui..." Smoothly, but in annoyance. The woman who held the most resemblance to her only replied to her specifically with a smile.
"It's true. You showed literally no interest in men… or woman actually. And of course, there's nothing wrong with that."
She waited as the looming presence of her Father approached from his office. He entered and all eyes fell on the man. Mikoto turned and went back to her cooking
"Izumi." He brought his gaze to Naruto. "What an hour it is, Naruto-san. I've known you since you were a little boy and to see you progress into the shinobi and hero that you are today is in it's most simplistic way amazing. And to think now you've taken an interest in my daughter. " Naruto scratched his head. "What can I say. I'm doing what's only good for the village and its people. And you know, she's my world."
"What's only expected from a shinobi, and a man." He rubbed his chin. He then allowed his eyes to land on spiky haired Uchiha. "Shisui..." He sighed slightly irritated.
"What's up Fugaku." Shisui greeted.
"How's your Father and Mother."
"They're great, just doing chores for Aunt Mikoto."
Fugaku nodded. "Many things we have to discuss. What is expected and asked of someone who wishes to be a future betrothed."
Izumi felt Naruto almost completely fall backward. "Betrothed?" Had she forgotten to inform him of how their traditions worked? Or that she didn't just date people with the intentions of things going on temporarily. She grabbed his hand at this, attempting to bring him some sort of comfort. Kakashi's words rang in her head.
...I think you're exactly what he needs...
"Precisely, engagement and then eventually marriage. I am honestly proud in my daughter's evaluation for a suitable husband."
Naruto looked at her and back at Fugaku. He swallowed lightly, but it did not go unnoticed by her.
"Of course Fugaku-san. But, isn't this all a little too fast?"
Izumi watches as fire erupted into her Father's eyes. She agreed with Naruto, a hundred and ten percent. However, her Father had a very precise and traditional way of thinking.
"Nonsense! What's ridiculous is how long it's taken my daughter to start dating. What's nonsense is that she has been of age for a while and has only recently done anything about it."
She crossed her arms. "There was no one who interested. I've been patient and waited for the one who would bring focus to themselves." She held up his hand, raising it towards the ceiling. "Naruto finally became that person." She gave her Father a hard and meaningful stare, she wouldn't do anything without reason, she had always kept her duties as the heiress in the back of her head, knowing that she'd eventually have to be wed.
"Just be thankful that I didn't arrange my own suitor for you." His words were calm, but she knew the small jab he threw.
"We talked about that Fugaku." Mikoto voiced, but kept her back towards the group. Shisui let out a short but audible chuckle.
Fugaku eyed Shisui and his wife. She thanked her Mother for her rebellious personality.
"Thank-you, Mikoto; I remember. My comment still stands. There is a certain and precise way things should be handled and I intend to carry them out this way."
"We never came to an agreement on the matter. But, let me remind you that we have no right to decide the future of our daughter and her soon to be betrothed."
"It is what's necessary to preserve our tradition!" He countered, and her Mother fell silent but Izumi knew her Mother wasn't finished yet. Bother her parents were extremely stubborn, a trait that Sasuke had inherited and Izumi to an extent.
He grabbed his chin. "Now, you two are aware of how to hold yourselves when alone." He began and she felt Naruto become uneasy. "If you are going to be intimate please use protection, unwanted pregnancies and having children out of wedlock is looked down upon and may have unfavorable results." she didn't miss the death stare he sent towards Naruto, it said a million things but the most prominent one being 'watch it'. The verbal exchange seemed to completely be decoded by Naruto and he nodded.
Silence followed, Naruto's face remained stern and the boy quiet.
Shisui laughed, receiving a glare from her father. She wondered why Shisui got off on making things awkward for Naruto. She watched as her mother continued to cook, but could clearly see the edges of her smile. Naruto seemed to be in deep thought. Fugaku sighed.",
"Now onto more pressing matters." She could almost feel what was about to happen.
"You are expected to propose to my daughter within the Month, any time afterward is unacceptable. Purchase of any engagement ring will be compensated by the Uchiha and possibly from my own pocket if necessary."
The blond Jounin continued to stare with his sapphire eyes, nodding his in understanding, but she could tell he looked a bit skeptical. She silently wondered what was going through his head. She gripped his hand tighter, instinctively. He replied by entwining his larger fingers around her own. Instantly shoot comfort within the girl.
"I understand."
She smiled but knew there was still some sort of doubt within him.
"We can discuss all of this later, say...tomorrow dinner at six?" Her Father stated.
Naruto nodded again. "I'm not busy tomorrow, I'd have no issue with that. I'm sure Mikoto-san will cook up something delicious so it'd be my pleasure actually."
Her Mother didn't speak but, Izumi could feel the smile coming off of Mikoto.
"Oh, and the next time you and Sasuke decide to brawl out, please make sure it's anywhere but inside the village, especially the Uchiha compound and more importantly my would be paying for the damages too if it were you who had aggravated the attack. Your rivalry can be taken elsewhere." And with that Fugaku turned, and headed back to his private office, not waiting for any other response. Izumi watched his back as he disappeared into the darkness of the house.
He stood seeming to be completely stuck in gaze. She watched him as he quietly messed with his thoughts. "Naruto-Kun." she broke his concentration as hHe turned to her and smiled softly. "I guess I have to propose to you pretty soon."
"Well there goes the surprise factor!" Shisui commented.
They ignored him.
"Uh, Shisui? Why don't we leave these two alone." Her mother explained to her favorite nephew.
"Of course Mikoto." He stated, making his way from the kitchen for a moment, not before turning to the two and winking.
She looked at Naruto feeling guilty for not informing him directly of her intentions. In all actuality, she felt as if she had completely played him. "I apologize for not informing you of my intentions to make you my betrothed."
He nodded. "Oh, no it's cool. Just absorbing it all."
She watched analyzing his face, it switched through multiple expressions. "It's alright if you're having second thoughts about this Naruto-Kun. I don't want to force–"
"No, you're not forcing anything." He came up to her and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her close to his chest as they exchanged a hug. She allowed her cheek rested against his toned chest. "I want to be with you, and if I have to marry you because that's something you need to happen, then by all means, I'll do so. Even if it's a little premature, I'll do it for you!" And right then and there Naruto kissed her on the cheek, sending a wave of emotion she was normally not exposed to. He felt her cheek actually redden it was all weird, yet satisfying. She looked up at him and pecked his lip with her own, just a quick peck before returning her face into his chest.
"I want you to come with me." She said into his shirt. She looked upwards at the taller man. "To the Kage summit, that is, with Kakashi when he's given emergency powers."
"Okay." He said softly.
"It'd make the trip more bearable, and honestly we may need some time away from the village if only for a moment."
He smirked, seeming to be more relaxed now that Fugaku's presence was absent. She could hear the mellow drum of his heartbeat, the rhythm seeming oddly relaxing and satisfying to the ear. She suddenly found two fingers raising her chin upwards as she allowed herself to become consumed in the ecstasy and the arousal that came from displaying affection. Both their lips connecting as she allowed her head to tilt to the side and softly nibbled at his bottom lip, pulling it gently. He moved his hands from her waist sliding it slowly to her buttocks. She twitched a bit at the sudden sensation, as he cupped it softly, but appropriately she moved his hands from her ass.
"Not here, Mikoto and Shisui will be back any moment.", she looked him in his water blue eyes. "You always touch my butt when we do...this." Maybe that was a dumb statement.
"My bad, I couldn't help myself." he replied awkwardly, but she interrupted. "No, it fine... Just Shisui and my mother..."
He placed his hands behind his head, removing them from her persona. "Oh yeah, of course. That'd be another awkward moment." And in that moment both Shisui and Mikoto returned. A low shushing noise coming from her Mother. They both walked in inconspicuously, but Izumi didn't miss the delighted gleam in her Mother's eyes. They hadn't given them much privacy and had been gone for maybe a few moments. Her Mother was merely excited at the prospect of grandchildren, it was all typical in Izumi's opinion.
SThen shisui said. "I know your favorite nephew is invited to this little dinner tomorrow, Aunt Mikoto."
She gave a pot a quick stir and never turned from the stove. "Of course, but I'm not sure Fugaku would too keen on that."
"Also, your presence isn't necessary and is completely random."
Shisui shook his head. "I understand that, but I could definitely be the comic relief to what would be a boring dinner."
"I'd rather you not.", She answered.
"Come one I basically got you and Naruto together."
Naruto shrugged and looked at Izumi. "He helped. I personally wouldn't mind." He probably wanted him at the dinner so that the whole entire dinner isn't just Fugaku questioning them.
"You must really have nothing better to do." She teased.
"I got notta, man."
"Notta, huh?" She smiled.
"Notta thing. I got no missions, don't feel like training and no girl." He shrugged.
"You don't have a girlfriend yet Shisui?"
"That's not surprisingly actually." Naruto joking a jab at the spiky haired Uchiha,
"No, I don't."
"And we are here criticizing Izumi and you don't even have one."
Izumi nodded in agreement and Naruto chuckled. "Hypocrisy at it's finest."
"Tsst. Whatever, I did you guys a favor. Don't turn this on me. "And Izumi is one hard Kunoichi to catch. Do you know how many people have tried?",
She shrugged, maybe just a little. "Hm."
The air screamed as a blue metal blade pierced it. The sound of Sasuke's blade consumed in blue lightning cutting through entire tree trunks in one swoosh bombarded the forest, as he took it upon himself to cut down a few trees to burn off some needed steam. He continued and refused to stop putting full force into his slashes cutting the trees down within mere seconds and allowing the heavy trees to hit the forest floor like bombs. He kept moving, sweat flowing off his face in rivers, his hair sticking to his tan skin as he continued to redecorate the forest. He wasn't exactly angry. No, he was simply burning off steam, releasing stress in the best way he knew. Training, or in this case destroying a portion of the nearby forest. Of which he could or could could not get in trouble for. He shrugged, he was in enough trouble. He didn't care so much about any more demerits. If that was the what would happen, then so be it. He didn't care, what he was feeling now was an ambition to get more power. He would find a way, himself.
You could use him
No.
It would be easier.
But it wouldn't be from his resolve and strength alone.
He pulled back holding his sword perpendicular with the grass as lightning sizzled off of his katana, the smell of burning wood hitting his nostrils like an 80-pound weight.
You would be able to beat him.
That was true enough, but it was treasonous
It would make you more powerful.
How much more powerful? He breathed heavily.
The powers of the Mangekyou Sharingan would definitely put you closer to him.
The ends didn't justify the means.
It does, don't be weak.
He wasn't weak!
It'd be easy, you've done it many times before.
But to someone her loved?
The ends justify the means.
But for who?
You.
He stepped back, his head burning in pain.
He humiliated, disrespected and betrayed you.
He's his best friend.
Would a best friend really do that?. She and he, they both betrayed you.
She's his sister.
She betrayed you in more ways than one. She would have killed you if she had to, she cares more about that damn village than her own brother. They made you pay for all that damage to the village, they pity you.
Shisui said otherwise!
That's a naive way of thinking, Shisu doesn't know what he's talking about.
He believed him.
To an extent, but your belief is tilted.
He wanted to believe him.
You shouldn't, all you should want is power. You need it.
" I can't!", he stated with an excess of effort.
You say that… But you never know what you're truly capable of.
Sasuke shook his head, as it throbbed painfully. He dropped his weapon as he shook away his thoughts to no avail. No, he'd surpass both Naruto and Izumi himself, that was final. No help from criminals, he would complete this all by himself.
You want to do it, it's only a matter of who and when.
*Boom and finished! How'd you like this installment of In His Own Right? Please tell me in a Review BELOW, and I promise that I will update the next chapter by the end of January. Shit, I will even start it tomorrow morning and make a goal of 500 words each day. With that said please be extremely patient and I apologize for the recent long waits. Anyhow, I had a poll a few months back about ShiuixIno and it got a lot of positive feedback, so that will be a side thing. Sasuke? What can I say...Oh, nothing really. We'll see what happens. Oh, Next chapter is going to be fluffy, with a small tint of salt.
*One more thing. If anyone is interested in writing a short story no less than 100 words no more than 1,000 words, depicting fem!ItachixNaruto from this story in any way or form of your liking and wish to send it to me. I will post that small short story in the beginning of the next chapter if I like it or even get any. Of course, it won't have any chronological correspondence with the story. Think of it as a little fun, I don't know!
*Anyways, Love or hate? Pray tell! Bye!