Warning: Whole bunch of angst and shit
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-o0o-
After patching up Obito, Iruka went home to find Naruto passed out on his couch and no sign of Sasuke. He stitched up the cut on the blond's head and called Jiraiya to tell him that Sasuke was missing. Initially, they assumed that the boy had gotten upset over something and ran off to blow off some steam.
Then Naruto woke up and dropped a huge shit bomb on them. At first, the boy claimed that the Hyuga clan sent a deadly assassin to abduct Sasuke. After a phone call to the Hyuga clan head they were back at square one. It was while they were in the living room brainstorming that Iruka sheepishly announced that he had a hidden security camera.
So after wasting an hour, the three gathered around the screen and watched as a young Hyuga girl rendered Naruto and Sasuke unconscious.
"Can't believe you got owned by some girl." Jiraiya shook his head at his godson as he continued to watch the video.
"Some girl? She was like a ninja assassin." Naruto pointed his finger dramatically. "And you're one to talk. How many times has Granny handed your ass to you?" He knew that he had fucked up - royally. Right after he finally confessed to Sasuke the boy was taken, during his watch. He hadn't been lying when he said that regardless of the assignment that he loved Sasuke. But knowing the bastard he was going to hold one hell of a grudge.
"There!" Iruka pointed at the screen and they all watched Madara walk up the driveway.
"Damn!" Jiraiya ran his fingers through his hair. They were supposed to have been keeping Sasuke out of Madara's grasp. Itachi was out there now doing his part, holding up his end of the bargain and they couldn't even do the one thing he asked. "I'll go talk to Tsunade. We need to get him back as soon as possible." He paused and regretted his next words. "Naruto you have to stay here."
"Like hell I will!" He snapped.
"This isn't a simple assignment, Naruto." He tried to reason with the boy. "You don't know the things that Madara is capable of. He won't hesitate to kill you."
"Why didn't he kill me last night? He had the perfect chance to!"
"If Madara allowed you to live it wasn't out of compassion. It means that he has bigger plans for you and we can't let that happen?"
Naruto felt so useless at that moment. Not only did he let Sasuke down but he let Itachi down as well. "Do you know where Itachi is?" He had a suspicion that the perv had known all along.
Jiraiya thought about the deal that he and Itachi made. If he didn't come back from Oto, they were supposed to tell Sasuke that his older brother had died protecting the country. But until his death was confirmed they couldn't say a word.
"Listen up brat," Jiraiya said. "You know the drill on classified information and Itachi is classified."
"So you do know. Sasuke has been worried sick about his brother!"
"Naruto-"
"Did you know that he wouldn't eat until he knew that Itachi was okay?" Naruto tried to keep his voice steady. He could only imagine how messed up Sasuke would be if something happened to his brother. "I had to make him eat! If you knew something you should have told Sasuke!"
Iruka placed a gentle hand on the boy's shoulder. Calm down, Naruto." He saw firsthand how the boy's anger could get out of control.
"You can come with me to talk to Tsunade but not out on the field." Jiraiya would also have to have a talk with Hiashi and ask him why one of his own were working with Madara.
"Okay! Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!" Naruto pushed past the two men and walked out of the room.
They both watched him go. Jiraiya had known the moment he saw his godson that the boy had finally told Sasuke the truth. But he needed Naruto to be focused right now more than anything.
Itachi was aware that he was being followed; in fact he had known that whoever was tailing him had been doing so for over an hour now. The lack of professionalism was farcical. He wanted to engage the stalker yet opted to wait on them to make their move. And whenever they did he would make sure to take his time killing them. It was their own fault for having the audacity to try and peruse him as inexperienced as they obviously were.
He had purposely taken his time to reach Hebi and now he was close enough to see into the first floor of the building. Surprisingly it was all glass at the bottom, with black brick surrounding the second floor onward. Orochimaru's chambers were at the top floor- the tenth floor. It was late in the evening- the streets below were almost empty. A few soldiers patrolled the streets keeping a look out for any citizens that were out past curfew.
Everything was too easy. From Kakashi's contact Yamato discovering the security breech and him killing five guards and their disappearance going unnoticed for twelve hours - something was wrong. He had been informed that Orochimaru was aware that he was coming. Security should have been tighter than it was not so lax.
Itachi sighed. They were taunting him; showing him that he was too insignificant in their eyes for a need of alarm. Good, that meant that killing Orochimaru would be more satisfying than he initially thought.
In the back of his mind he could still hear Kakashi's voice, telling him that he didn't have to die. Maybe the man had been right when he labeled him suicidal. But wasn't he justified? His life had been nothing but darkness with a few moments in the sun. He was damaged with his sanity barely hanging on. Who's to say he wouldn't have ended up killing Neji? What if the man woke him up from one of his nightmares and he killed him by mistake?
The trauma he'd experienced throughout his life was enough to make even the mightiest of men crumble in a heap of despair. There was something sinister inside of him that was conceived on that night his innocence was stolen from him. When inflicting pain on himself didn't bring him any gratification he turned to other means.
That was how he found shelter in BDSM at the age of sixteen. There was nothing that compared to the pleasure that he derived from inflicting pain on others. That was until he met Neji and his views on dominating were shattered. See, he had convinced himself that the only way for him to never be placed in a position of vulnerability he had to be in total control.
Years of that warped thinking clouded his judgement. Then Neji came along and showed him that there was pleasure in submission. Itachi regretted that his time with the man had to be so limited. But did it have to be? Surely there were other things that he could learn from Neji. A faint smile played at the corners of his lips and he could feel his heart swelling with warmth.
If on the off chance that he made it out of there alive -
Feeling a prickle along the back of his neck, Itachi turned around and aimed his gun at the person that was trying to sneak up on him.
"It's about time you showed yourself." Itachi kept his gun aimed at the assailant. They were about the same age. The guy had sickly pale skin, stark white hair and teal eyes. Two scarlet dots adorned his forehead.
"The honor of your presence is requested by Orochimaru-sama."
"You've been stalking me for this long just to tell me that?" He smirked. "Request denied."
The man seemed completely unfazed by the gun pointed at his head. "I've merely been waiting for the effects of the drug to kick in."
"Drug?" Itachi narrowed his eyes when he felt the gun in his hand growing heavy.
Speak of the devil and he shall appear. He bitterly thought to himself.
Taking another step closer the man smiled. "I must admit, I'm impressed that you were able to last this long. You were injected with it half an hour ago."
Itachi searched his mind for anything out of the ordinary. He'd been careful not to interact with anyone - how was this possible? His arm dropped to his sides and the gun fell from his hand onto the ground. Next his legs gave out and he slumped on his knees.
Realization hit him like a freight train and his eyes widened slightly. He did interact with someone; it was a child that he'd given food to. The boy was rummaging through the trash cans in search of food. But how did he succeed in drugging him?
"Yukimaru is a very clever boy, Uchiha-san." The man responded as if he read his thoughts. "Even the children in this country can't be trusted."
With a grunt, his body hit the ground and he could feel himself slipping into unconsciousness. He'd been too distracted and it was his downfall.
"Welcome to the Sound." Kimimaro said.
-o0o-
The rustling sound of satin woke Itachi up from his drug induced slumber. Wherever he was it was dark; his body tensed at the sound of someone pacing in the dark room. They weren't even attempting to be quiet. Slowly, he moved his hands down his body to make sure that his concealed weapons were still on his person.
A tinkling laugh came from the dark. "Just get up sleepyhead, I know you're awake. I've been making enough noise..." he paused theatrically and continued in a whisper, "to wake the dead!" He laughed at his own joke and Itachi felt his stomach cramp painfully in apprehension.
Orochimaru.
"Let me put you at ease. Your weapons are gone."
The light switched on and Itachi saw a vision of crimson before him. Orochimaru's dark hair was piled on top of his head; the red Kimono was elaborate with gold embroidered chrysanthemums. Orochimaru was dressed like he was the lead in a Noh performance instead of a feared warlord.
Orochimaru smoothed out his kimono demurely and settled himself in the chair that sat adjacent to the king sized bed. He leaned back and paused, like a cat seeing a ghost. His delicate nostrils flared, a peculiar looked flashed across his face then was gone. Then his expression settled on contented happiness which did nothing to ease the knot of wariness in his stomach.
"Itachi-kun." He purred and Itachi had to choke back the urge to gag. Orochimaru ran his finger along the arm of the chair slowly, and then wiped his hands against each other as though trying to brush off something distasteful. "You've been a very a busy boy. When Madara told me that you were coming I did a little digging on you."
Fed up with the sound of the man's voice, Itachi made a move but Orochimaru waved a finger at him as though he were talking to a naughty puppy, "Be patient. There will be enough time for us to get well acquainted with each other later." He laughed.
"If you lay a finger on me I will rip it off." Itachi's voice was lethally quiet. He noted how he was unrestrained and there didn't seem to be any safety precautions. This meant that Orochimaru had something up his sleeve and it would be unwise to attack without having a plan.
Orochimaru looked scandalized and he placed a hand over his heart dramatically. "My dear Itachi-kun, I would never do something as unsavory as that." He smiled and leaned his body over suggestively. "Besides I would much prefer it if you did all of the touching."
At that moment, Itachi was thinking of one hundred ways to end the warlord's life. However, he knew from experience that an appearance was simply that - an appearance. Underestimating Orochimaru because of his wardrobe preferences would be a mistake.
The sound of Orochimaru clapping his hand in pleasure snapped him out of his thoughts. "I think fifteen minutes have passed by now. It's finally ready!" He stood up from his seat and extended a hand to Itachi. "Come. I have a gift for you."
Itachi looked at the hand furiously, like touching Orochimaru would contaminate him on a fundamental level. Cell-deep revulsion. But he stood up from the bed and grabbed the man's hand hard, and then relaxed his grip. He knew the game well so he decided to play along. If there was another option there was no time to figure it out.
They left through the double doors of the bedroom and walked out into a velvet lined hallway. The urge to break Orochimaru's arm was overpowering. When the warlord glanced at him and winked he had a feeling that the man knew what he was thinking.
"Who is Neji?" Orochimaru asked enviously. Sounding like a jealous lover. "You called out his name in your sleep."
Itachi stared at him; face clear of any emotions or indication that he was planning to answer the question. War be damned, he would burn Otogakure to a cinder if Orochimaru even attempted to drag Neji into this.
Pouting his lips, Orochimaru tsked in a disapproving manner. "You're such a poor conversationalist, Itachi-kun." They finally stopped at a red door. "No matter. I think after you take a look at your gift you will open up more."
Behind the red door was a room with sophisticated interior colored in red and black subtly enhancing the suggestive eroticism. Two chairs sat in front of the bed; reluctantly Itachi allowed the man to escort him to his seat. After Orochimaru took his own seat, he snapped his fingers and one of the doors in the room were opened.
"Imagine my shock during my little digging when I discovered that you were a sexual deviant." Orochimaru smiled knowingly at him. "Tell me, Itachi-kun. Why did you leave the scene?"
Itachi ignored the man's teasing completely he was too engulfed by the tableau before him. A naked man was crawling on all fours in his direction; staring at him in adoration. He tried to tear his eyes away from the sight, but he couldn't. Another man was holding the leash that was around the sub's neck. Itachi immediately recognized him as Kabuto Yakushi, Orochimaru's second in command.
"What is this?" He asked as he watched with unblinking interesting as Kabuto yanked roughly on the man's leash.
Orochimaru could see Itachi's will deflating before his eyes, like melting snow in the bright sunshine. "This is what you yearn for." He stood up and sashayed around the room sinuously. "Who am I to deny you of what you truly desire?"
With skillful precision, Kabuto reached down and grabbed the man's arm painfully.
Biting down on his knuckles, Itachi had to fight back the groan that almost escaped his lips. The sub moaned in pleasure as his arm hung loosely to his side from Kabuto dislocating his shoulder. Itachi closed his eyes tightly and tried to block out the dark voice inside of his head. His hand twitched at the thought of the sounds the man would make if he roughly popped his shoulder back in place.
No!
Behind his eyes like a fading mirage he could see Neji. He was telling him not to give in, that he was much stronger than this. Opening his eyes again, he caught the way that Orochimaru was staring at Kabuto with unabashed need. Narrowing his gaze, he continued to watch how the two were looking at each other.
Keeping his focus on the warlord, Kabuto reached down and popped the sub's arm in place. Orochimaru visibly shuddered and Itachi saw the truth.
Then he smirked at what he saw. A full minute passed and he already had a plan formed.
"Kabuto." His voice was dark and seductive, a quiet ruthlessness underlying his tone. "May I play with your pet for the evening?" He asked casually.
Kabuto smiled wickedly at him. "But of course." He was about to relinquish his hold on the leash to hand it over but was stopped dead in his tracks.
"No," Itachi stood up fluidly from his seat. "Not him. I am referring to Orochimaru."
The door to the clan head's office opened and Hinata stepped out with a pitiable look on her face. "Tenten." She said.
Taking the cue, Tenten swallowed nervously before standing up from her position on the floor of the hallway. Glancing over at Hanabi, she could see the young girl still had her face covered. She was more than likely crying again. Hinata went straight to her sister and consoled her.
Tenten walked into the office and took in the sight of Hiashi seated at his desk with a male branch member flanking either side of him. Like wax figurines the two guards stood silently and still.
In a chair seated directly across from the desk sat Tokuma. Extending his hand, Hiashi motioned for her to take the seat next to him.
Tokuma gave her a small smile as she took the seat. It did nothing to ease the knots in her stomach. Being there in the elaborate office in front of the supercilious clan head made her nervous.
"Tenten." Hiashi didn't bother with any pleasantries. "Do you know any information about the person that Neji has been seeing?" He could see her amber eyes widen and dart around the room skittishly. "Hinata has already told me that Neji admitted to having a strong interest in someone. I just need you to tell me anything else that you know regarding this person."
A strong interest in someone. As if the idea of his nephew being in love with anyone was outrageous. Tenten noticed how the man refrained from using a specific gender but she had inkling that Hiashi was aware that the person in question was a guy.
Four sets of pale eyes were boring into her making her shift uncomfortably in her seat. Betraying Neji's trust was the last thing on her mind. However, it was clear to her that her friend was in worse condition than she previously thought. If Itachi was the cause of his distress, surely Neji's family deserved to know.
The looks on Hinata and Hanabi's faces when they saw Neji's unconscious form lying on his bed was heart wrenching. All of the years that she had known Hanabi; she had never seen the young girl look so small and piteous. Despite her mischievousness, Hanabi adored Neji and so did Hinata.
They deserved to know the truth.
Tenten's gaze shifted back to the domineering clan head that was looking at her impatiently. If he found out that Neji was gay, what would he do? The unknown was the main reason for her hesitance. But she had a feeling that Hiashi knew more than he was letting on.
"I only know the person's name." Tenten finally said.
Hiashi remained silent, waiting for the girl to continue.
"His name is Itachi."
A shiver ran down Tenten's spine when the temperature in the room seemed to drop. The guards must have noticed it too because they exchanged a heedful glance.
Outwardly, Hiashi appeared unfazed; he didn't want to do anything to betray his outrage. "Is that the only thing that you know?" He asked crisply.
Besides the fact that Itachi was strikingly handsome, supposedly mind blowing in the sack and oh yeah a murderer - her information on the man was limited. Tenten already felt like crap for telling Hiashi as little as she did. If he wanted to know anything else he would have to get it out of Neji himself.
Though, she knew that she could at least trust Hinata. Neji was stubborn and she was going to need the girl's assistance in getting to the bottom of all of this.
"That's the only thing I know."
Closing his eyes, Hiashi pulled his brows together in a frown. "You are dismissed, thank you. Tell my daughters that they can go check on Neji now."
With a small bow, Tenten left the office.
"Hiashi-sama, if I may." Tokuma waited for the man's consent before he continued. "I believe that I can be of more assistance then just tailing Neji. With your permission of course."
Hiashi considered his offer. It was clear now that the reason for Neji's melancholic behavior lately was due to - his mind stumbled over the appropriate word. He preferred not to acknowledge the fact that his nephew was heartbroken especially over another man. Instead he would view it as Neji just losing focus on his duties. Yes, that was much better. Plus if Tokuma was willing to help Neji get back on the right track it would give him enough time to find a way to get rid of Hidan once and for all.
Then there was the man that Neji was supposedly involved with. The last time he'd heard of or seen Fugaku's oldest son was a year after the Uchiha Affair. He would have to dispatch someone to do a little digging on the matter.
But for now, he decided to grant Tokuma permission to look after Neji.
-o0o-
The last thing Neji wanted at that moment was to be coddled by anyone. He preferred solitude more than anything but it would seem that he would not be granted his wish. Why couldn't they just understand that he wasn't in the mood to talk? Yes, he was aware more than anyone that what happened to him had been frightening.
Before he could even try to grasp the reality of what had happened he was bombarded with questions from his uncle. As if he didn't have questions of his own. Now he was in his room again; Tenten, Hinata and Hanabi were there attempting to console him. Although the gesture was greatly appreciated, he just wanted to be left alone.
At least until he sorted through his own thoughts and emotions.
"Neji..." Hinata took a hesitant step closer to the bed but stopped when he irately snapped his head in her direction. They could all tell that Neji did not want to be bothered, but they were only concerned for him.
Sighing Neji's expression softened. "I appreciate the concern I really do. But please, just give me my space right now. I promise that we all can talk later, but now..." His voice cracked and he looked down at his lap.
Tenten nodded her head and forced a smile. "Sure, Neji we understand." She placed an arm around the other girls' shoulders. "Just take your time; we'll be here when you're ready to talk."
Neji continued to stare blankly at his lap long after they left. When his eyes began to burn he closed them and placed his arm over his face. He laid his head down on his pillow in exhaustion.
From the night that they first met in Club Kage he knew that he was ruined.
A moth to a flame and he'd always known that he was the moth, and Itachi was the fire that would consume him. But maybe that wasn't quite right. Itachi had been drawn to him too. Perhaps Neji was the flame. Itachi stoked the flame, but it was Neji who burned and let the blaze get out of control.
What began as a little experimenting with his sexuality turned into a soap opera? First it was the forbidden affair then the betrayal now here he was having mental breakdowns. He was supposed to be stronger - smarter than this. Being overly emotional was not who he was. Neji was tired of feeling so hollow and pitiful. Although the truth was a hard pill to swallow, he needed to get over himself.
Itachi made the decision to renounce him without any explanation. That wasn't love; it was only lust that they shared. Now he had to deal with the fact that he was the only one that was ensnared by love's potent grasp. But that didn't mean that it was the end for him.
Shit happens; he knew that better than most.
Him being forced to move back to the compound was inevitable. He had been foolish to think that the small amount of freedom that he had would last. It was fate and the sooner he stopped running from his, the easier things would be.
Then there were his friends - the people who truly cared for him. He couldn't have them worrying about him anymore.
Neji dropped his arm and sat up; he could hear footsteps outside of his door. A mixture of relief and foreboding washed over him when Tokuma walked in. As long as it wasn't his uncle.
"How are you feeling?"
He searched the man's face for any signs of spite and he saw none.
"I'm," He was going to say that he was fine but he would only sound like a broken record. So he opted for the truth. "I'm hungry and emotionally unstable. If you're here to pick a fight you will lose." There wasn't any arrogance in his voice; he sounded tired more than anything.
"Your three body guards are preparing a meal for you as we speak." Tokuma joked. "I would hate to have any of them as my enemy."
Neji smiled at the thought of his cousins and TenTen then it faltered. He had always been the one to protect them and make sure that they were taken care of. Since when did their roles reverse?
"You have loyal friends, Neji."
He did and he was aware of that. So the fact that he had been keeping them in the dark about everything was really taking a toll on him. It would seem that love also made you selfish.
"I'm sure that they'll understand whatever it is that you're afraid to tell them." Tokuma's voice remained Impassive as usual. Yet he could hear the hint of sincerity.
He understood now why Tokuma had been provoking him. It was his way of showing concern. Being handpicked to serve as a guard to the clan head was both an honour and a curse. At a young age Hyuga orphans are trained relentlessly and when the time comes they take the positions from branch members who have served the required time. He would have shared that same fate if it hadn't been for his uncle.
Throwing the comforter back, Neji climbed out of the bed. It was time to stop feeling sorry for himself.
"Tokuma, if you don't mind I would like to go freshen up." Neji walked to his bathroom but before he went in he stopped. "And thank you." He said quietly.
When the door to the bathroom closed, Tokuma smiled briefly before leaving the room.
After the shower, Neji felt like a new man. While he made his way down the stairs he caught a whiff of a delectable aroma that lead him to the kitchen. He was still a little nervous about the altercation with his uncle that he knew was coming.
Neji couldn't just weasel his way out of a panic attack with some half-assed excuse. A sharp pain in his stomach indicating his hunger overrode all thoughts about his uncle. The closer he made his way to the kitchen the less he cared about anything other than food.
"Hanabi, I think you used too much salt in the soup." Hinata grimaced as she placed the spoon in the sink. She turned around to see Neji in the doorway of the kitchen and she went straight to him. "Neji!"
Before he could open his mouth to speak he was practically tackled by three women. Which was equivalent to hugging Rock Lee. This was the second time in two days that he had to endure a group hug and he would never admit that he enjoyed them both.
"Tokuma said that you were feeling better." Tenten said once the hug was over. "Glad to see so for myself."
"Hn." Neji smirked. "I heard that you were cooking for me. I had to make sure that none of you poisoned me."
"If you're going to take a shot at me just say it to my face!" Hanabi playfully kicked him in the shin.
As they bickered, Hinata and TenTen started to set the table.
Hiashi stood at the bottom of the stairs and listened to the teenagers joke around. With a sigh, he turned around and went back up the stairs. The talk with Neji could wait. His nephew had been through enough.
Madara wanted to sigh, but that would be an outward expression of his irritation and was unnecessary. He prowled to the window, clasping his hands behind his back, hoping to erase some of the tension in his shoulders. Looking out at the garden with its formal rows of hedges and roses, small paths, and the fountain that gurgled in the middle of it all, he couldn't help but smile.
Yet it wasn't enough. None of it was enough; he had hoped that he could fill the void inside of him -
He paused in the middle of his musings. It was all a load of rubbish. There was no void inside of him; he was perfectly content with the way things were. Ruining lives, destroying bonds and manipulating people - he did it all because he could. Simple as that. As long as there were people to toy with the game would never end.
The heat of Sasuke's gaze was practically burning through his dress shirt and he hummed in satisfaction. His nephew was more stubborn than he thought; such was the cause of his vexation. The teen was a spoiled brat that was too loyal to his brother for his own good. He'd opened his home to the boy, fed him and offered him a warm bed. Still, Sasuke was hostile around him.
"You expect me to believe a word that comes out of your mouth?" Sasuke leered at him. "You sent your mutt to my house with a gun. He could have shot me or Naruto. I have no reason to trust you."
"Tell me, Sasuke. Who do you trust?" He asked without bothering to turn around. "Your brother? The person who has been lying to you since you were eight? Or that friend of yours, Naruto?"
Sasuke stared daggers at the man. His more rational side was telling him that despite him being kept in the dark, Itachi loved him. In fact he knew with every fiber of his being that his brother loved him. Nobody knew what they went through the months that followed their parents' death. Even when his brother was sick and bedridden for weeks, he was still taken care of. There was no way that he was going to allow anyone to turn him against Itachi.
They had been through too much together.
"I don't trust you. That's all you need to know." Sasuke was tired of the old man's nonsense. He needed to be out trying to find his brother not sitting around sharing tea with his deranged uncle. "You should really learn how to use a phone instead of going through so much trouble to waste my time." He stood up from the couch and headed for the door.
Madara was growing more irritated by the second with his nephew's ill-mannered behavior. "By law you are under my care. So I advise you make yourself comfortable. You'll be living with me for now on."
Stopping in his tracks, Sasuke turned around and scowled at the man. "You know don't you? You know where my brother is!" He crossed the room until he was standing directly behind his uncle. "Tell me!"
Turning around, Madara feigned sincerity. "I'm sorry Sasuke, but your brother is dead."
"You're lying." Sasuke gritted out through clenched teeth. "You're a fucking liar!" He closed the distance with the intent to hit the man but he never got the chance.
With his fist balled, Madara hit him hard in the gut and tossed him on the floor. On the floor, Sasuke held his stomach tightly as he tried to force the air back into his lungs.
"You insolent little brat!" His voice roared. "If it had not been for me you and your brother would have been in a foster home. Separated from each other! Now here I am - the benevolent man that I am - trying to offer you shelter." He grabbed the boy by his shirt and lifted him up. "For now on you put your trust in me!"
Onyx clashed with onyx as Sasuke stared defiantly at the fuming man. Madara looked into the young boy's eyes and could see a carbon copy of Itachi before he corrupted him. They weren't like Obito; threats and abuse couldn't break their will so easily. That was why he went to such lengths to bend Itachi to his will.
It would seem that he would need to do the same to Sasuke.
With a malevolent smile, he leaned closer and whispered. "You will break, Sasuke. I can assure you of that."
...
Upstairs in one of the guest rooms, Sasuke sat at the foot of the bed and tried to think of an escape. While he was sleeping his phone was taken from his pocket and so far he hadn't seen any phones in the mansion. He had no idea where he was but he knew that he wasn't in Konoha anymore.
Sasuke attempted to keep his mind occupied with anything other than what Madara said about his brother being dead. It was a lie, he could just feel it. After what Naruto told him, he didn't think that he could deal with any more bad news. Speaking of the blond, he wanted to hate him but he couldn't. Naruto was his first friend, love, and the only person that he could relate to besides his brother.
It was his stupid pride that made him feel like forgiving Naruto would make him seem weak. Yes, he was aware that it was immature but it was the truth. His problems with Naruto would have to be put on hold until he found out about his brother. Sasuke knew that in the end he would forgive Naruto, he just needed time.
There was a light knock at his door; he stared at the door in hopes of warding off the visitor with a death stare. The door cracked opened and Saki popped her head in.
Suspiciously, he eyed the girl as she walked in the room and closed the door behind her. She bore a striking resemblance to Kiba's girlfriend Hinata, except Saki's hair was split down the middle and she wasn't as busty. Honestly, all Hyugas looked alike to him so he didn't dwell on it for too long.
"Are you hungry?" Saki asked. "I made some cinnamon rolls."
"I don't eat sweets." He responded flatly - dismissively.
"Well what do you like to eat?"
"..."
"Nothing, you say?" Saki snorted. "Looks like you'll be starving during your stay!" She moved to leave the room.
"Hey!" Sasuke called out to her. "How old are you?"
"18."
"Why are you here with my uncle?" He lowered his voice and glanced around the room. "Is he...are you two...together?"
"Are we together?" She repeated quietly. Then scrunched her face in disgust. "Yuck! Isn't he like 90?!"
That made him feel relieved; he had been under the impression that his uncle was a pedophile. Hell, for all he knew he was. "Then why are you here?" He asked again.
"The same reason you are."
"And that is?"
Saki gave him a contemplative look before answering. "We're mere tools - pieces in his game."
"I'm not anyone's tool!" His voice rose with his growing anger. If his uncle thought that he was going to be a pawn in one of his sick games he had another thing coming.
Saki walked over to him and lightly knocked on his forehead. "Hello! Is anyone home?"
"What are you doing?" Sasuke glowered and brushed her hands away. He looked at the girl and had to remind himself that hitting women was wrong.
"Trying to knock some sense into you. Because obviously you don't have any. I heard you in there yapping off at the mouth." She lowered her voice. "If you want to make it out of here you need to play along."
"Play along?"
Sighing, she sat down next to him on the bed. "These people - Madara and Obito - are literally insane. But I quickly learned the ropes. Madara doesn't like defiance and the more you show it the more he will find ways to break you."
Sasuke could hear the sadness in her tone and was tempted to ask her if she knew this from experience. He had an inkling that she did. "What are his plans for you?"
"I can't tell you."
That figures. Sasuke was getting absolutely nowhere. The only thing that he knew was that he was right to not trust his uncle. When he was younger Itachi would always make offhanded remarks about him. Eventually, he began to dislike the man but he didn't really know the true cause for his aversion. Maybe his brother had been subtly influencing his opinion of Madara.
"After I was taken what did Madara do to Naruto?" He had been worrying about the blond since he woke up and realized that they weren't together.
"He's still alive don't worry."
Madara's voice carried up the stairs into the bedroom. "Saki! Where are you?"
The two teens shared a look and jumped up as if they had been doing something wrong. Then they realized their ridiculous behavior and visibly relaxed.
"I should go see what he wants. Remember what I told you."
Sasuke watched the girl leave; he was still unsure whether he should trust her or not. She was capable of single handedly incapacitating him and Naruto. He had no idea how long she had been here under Madara's tutelage, it could all be a trap. Lying down on the bed, Sasuke closed his eyes and tried to think of a way out of there.
Downstairs, Madara watched Saki descend down the stairs. When she reached the bottom, he gently touched her chin and lifted her face so he could see her properly. "What were you two talking about?" He watched her face for any hint of deceit.
"Cinnamon rolls. He said he didn't like sweets. I tried to convince him. Didn't work." Saki shifted her gaze to the side in order to feign consternation. It worked like a charm.
Madara released his hold on her and took a step back. "Obito has been captured. The fool allowed himself to be captured during a pivotal moment for us. That is why I cannot tolerate any slacking on your behalf."
"Yes, Madara-sama." She bowed her head politely. When her face was lowered and covered by her dark tresses she stuck out her tongue and pulled a face.
Not noticing that he was being taunted, Madara continued. "The time is nigh. Everything is almost in place. We will be leaving for Amegakure in the morning. When we leave there you will travel to Konoha on your own, while I and Sasuke travel to Otogakure to watch the fireworks. I'm sure we'll be able to see them even from there." He chuckled darkly at the thought of finally seeing Konohagakure burned to the ground.
Starting with the Hyuga clan.
Neji had finally managed to slip out of the compound and decided to browse the local bookstore. For nothing in particular he just needed a break from all of the cosseting behavior from his friends. Every gesture, every move was scrutinized. It felt like everyone was waiting for him to do something -anything- that was vaguely unusual. Though he supposed that their concern was justified.
That morning, well before dawn, he and Tokuma were up. He would have never imagined that the training regimen that the man underwent every morning was that extreme. Even Tokuma's meditation practices were intense. Meditation for a full two hours was not an easy feat; to remain focused for that long in this day and age was damn near impossible.
After sparring with Tokuma, Tenten came out and he sparred with her as well. Actually, he ran around the dojo dodging shuriken while Hanabi stood by and yelled, "Dance my little puppet, dance!"
It was a nightmare.
Although, he did feel ten times better after meditating and the vigorous training. No offense to Hinata, but she really puts the "gentle" in Gentle Fist. So training with someone of his caliber was more beneficial to him. He recalled something Itachi said about fisting - another thing that he would never be down with. Now that he thought about it his family's technique sounded kinky. Neji smirked at the thought of him saying that during a clan meeting. The look on everyone's faces would be priceless.
While he in was the Science Fiction section, debating on purchasing the book Ubik, he spotted a familiar face standing further down the aisle. The universe couldn't be filled with this many coincidences. He thought to himself.
Neji debated on just acting as if he didn't see the man but he decided against it. With his book in hand he approached the man who was reading from a book.
"Twilight?" Neji raised a fine brow at the man's choice of literature. "Really?"
Looking up Hidan smiled and closed the book. "What sparkly vampires not your thing?"
"Hardly." He drawled. Faintly, he wondered if Hidan owned any shirts that didn't look like he shopped at Gap Kids. Did all of his shirts have to be so tight-fitted? But the man did have a great body that was exquisitely tanned. Absently he wiped the side of his mouth for any signs of drool.
Hidan looked at the book that Neji was holding and chuckled. "Didn't know you were a dweeb, Hyuga-hime."
"Why do you call me that? I know that my hair is long but do I look like a maiden to you?"
"I'm just messing with you since you were being so stingy with your name." Hidan extended his hand. "How about we start over, Kenji."
Neji stared at the offered hand before eventually taking it. "Actually, it's Neji. And you're Hidan, right?" He hadn't really thought about him outside of the few interactions that they had. Hidan was attractive and charming yet his mind was already occupied by an equally attractive man.
"Surprised you remembered. And I knew your name wasn't Kenji, it's the most generic name ever!"
"Tell me about it." He mumbled to himself. They just stood there in the narrow aisle surrounded by shelves of books. Neji didn't know what to say next so he started to plot his escape when Hidan spoke up.
"Got any plans for the rest of the day?"
Neji didn't have any plans but he was on the fence about telling Hidan that. This was his third time running into the man and it was obvious that Hidan was interested in him. But after Itachi he couldn't even think about another man.
"When I'm done with you, you will be ruined for other men."
He could hear the promise in the back of his mind, reminding him that no matter what he did Itachi could still control his actions. And he didn't like the idea at all. Itachi had thought that he was his property - that was his to mark and own. But the Hyuga clan already made their claim on him at birth.
There was no room for anyone else.
Hidan watched the kaleidoscope of emotions in those pale orbs. Apprehension, doubt, resentment and finally conviction. He wondered if Itachi was on the man's mind. Deidara was successful in finding proof of their involvement. It wasn't really much; just a picture of them taken from a store's security camera in Kamakura. But it was more than enough for him.
"No, I don't have any plans." Neji finally said. He wouldn't allow Itachi to control his life any longer.
Feeling pleased with the answer, Hidan placed the book back on the shelf. "Wanna get something to eat? There's a diner about a block from here."
"Sure, but this isn't a date." He warned. "I'm paying for my own meal."
Shrugging, Hidan started to walk off. "That means I get to save my money. Sweet!" He laughed and glanced over to see a small smile tugging at the corners of Neji's face. "Are you going to buy that book?"
Neji looked at the book in his hand; he had forgotten that he was holding it. "No, hold up I'm going to go put it back." He turned around and headed for the aisle.
Hidan leaned against the side of a shelf and crossed his arms. One of the employees walked over to tell him that leaning on the shelves wasn't permitted but he flashed the woman a look that made her spin on her heel and head back in the direction she came from.
After placing the book on the shelf, Neji turned around to see Tokuma standing there.
"What are you doing here?" He asked. Though he already knew the answer to the question.
Tokuma looked in the direction of Hidan and made sure that he wasn't paying attention to them. Hiashi had informed him to not engage the man head on, not unless he made a move to hurt Neji. He was still unsure of the man's motives or his relationship to the Hyuga clan, but he knew that something was off about him. The fact that he even revealed himself to Neji was against his orders.
"Were you planning on leaving here with him?" Tokuma asked.
Neji stared at him indignantly as if Tokuma had just insulted him. "I fail to see how that is any of your business. Why are you following me?"
Tokuma knew that his social cues sucked and his ability to feel sympathy was almost nonexistent. So he needed to be careful of what he said to Neji or he could make matters worse. "I'm here to make sure that you don't make any more mistakes."
The look on Neji's face was enough proof that what he said was definitely not the right thing to say. He opened his mouth to try again but Neji stopped him before he could form any coherent words.
He pinched the bridge of his nose to control his anger. "I was just going to get something to eat not blow him in a back alley for, Kami's sake."
"Blow him?" Tokuma frowned in confusion then shook his head. He would have to put a pin in that for later. "I...We just want to make sure that you are safe."
"I understand that, but following me is a bit too much. Don't you think?"
"Hiashi-sama -"
"Save it." Neji threw up his hand. "Spare me the speech."
Nodding his head, Tokuma looked down the aisle again to make sure that Hidan still wasn't paying attention to them. Even though he was sure that he could hear them. "Are you still going to go?"
"Yes."
"Do you...fancy him?"
Instead of responding, Neji gave him a glare that translated to, "Don't you dare follow me."
Then he walked off and exchanged words with Hidan before they headed in the direction of the exit. Before they left the store, Hidan turned his head and winked at Tokuma.
-o0o-
Stepping out of the door of Teuchi's diner, Neji was doused in a drizzle, which he despised. A drizzle had all the wetness of rain but was more insidious, like a rain sneak attack.
"I can't believe you were serious about not letting me pay."
"I told you that it wasn't a date." He reminded the man.
Because he didn't want his absence to be noticed so easily -which was pointless since his uncle was having him followed - Neji didn't drive. Instead he opted for public transportation. Yes, Hyugas took the bus. Glancing at his watch he noted that he had fifteen minutes before the next bus came.
"Mind if I walk you to your car?" Hidan flashed him a charming smile.
"Actually, I'm catching the bus." Neji hoped that the drizzle wouldn't turn into a downpour. "Thanks for the offer though." He was planning on saying goodbye, but the rain started to pick up.
Just his luck.
"I can just give you a ride home. My car isn't far from here."
Neji considered the offer; weighing the pros and cons when a bolt of lighting illuminated the darkening skies.
Taking Hidan's offered hand they made a quick dash across the crosswalk into the parking garage. Once they were under the cover of the building, they broke contact. He followed the man down the row of cars until they stopped at a cherry red sports car.
"You drive a Ferrari?" Neji snorted. "This car screams douche."
They climbed into the car; both were soaked from the rain.
"What do you drive? A Prius?!" Hidan started the car and a loud rap song blasted through the speakers.
"A Mercedes." He grimaced at the volume of the music. Then wanted to face-palm when he heard the term 'bae'. So it was a real word. He would have to mention it to TenTen later.
Turning the music down, he pulled out of the parking garage. "Where you going?" Hidan moved to put the address in his gps. Even though he knew that Neji was back at the compound.
Neji told him. It was further out of the city and with the rush hour starting they were going to be in the car for a while. Much to Neji's annoyance; he was starting to feel uncomfortable in the wet clothes and his hair was a different story altogether.
Sensing his discomfort, Hidan turned on the heater. "Got an extra shirt. Want it?"
"Do you live in your car?"
"Fuck no. I just have a few clothes in here. You want it or not?"
They stopped at a red light and Hidan peeled his shirt off and slung it in the back seat.
Did Neji check him out? Is his last name Hyuga?
He was only admiring the male form. Some people called it art. Neji smiled to himself; he was merely appreciating art- it was perfectly natural. Hidan reached over the seat in search of a shirt, his muscles clenched from the strain. Slowly, Neji's gaze dropped lower and lower -
Hidan sat up and tossed a shirt to Neji who was too busy "admiring" to catch it. Instead it fell in his lap. Neji swore that he saw Hidan smiling smugly. The light turned green and they were moving at a snail's pace through the traffic.
"Are you going to put the shirt on?" Hidan asked after he threw on another shirt that fit his body like it was painted on.
Fucking thirst trap.
Quirking his lips, Neji decided to teach the man a lesson. Reaching for the hem of his shirt, he arched his back as he pulled it off. Sliding a glance out of the corner of his eye he could see Hidan gaping at him. Smirking, he grabbed the dry shirt and put it on as quickly as possible therefore killing the mood. "Eyes on the road." He said casually and looked out of the window.
Hidan kept his eyes on the road but his mind stayed on the little display he'd just seen. He only saw it as adding fuel to the fire. His list of things that he wanted to do to Neji was gradually getting longer. Running his tongue along his button lip, he imagined what Neji's tears would taste like.
"Take this left. It's a shorter route." Neji said.
Taking the left, his gps rerouted and he could see that the drive was cut in half. The drive remained silent except for the soft music that played on the radio. Neji continued to stare out of the window watching all of the trees pass by as they left the city.
There was a secluded dirt road that Hidan was tempted to drive down. The tint on his windows were dark enough for him to do whatever he pleased unnoticed. His blood boiled at the thought of taking Neji there right now. The look of confusion on the boy's face when he took a left instead of a right to the Hyuga compound, would be enough to get him off. Knowing Neji he would immediately notice something was amiss. He pictured himself wrapping his hands around those long silky tresses and yanking the man's head back so he couldn't run.
Spreading his legs wider, Hidan could feel himself getting harder and harder by the minute. He looked out his side view mirror and saw that the same black sedan was still tailing them. Illegal tint, armored body, and unmarked. It was the type of car that Hyuga bodyguards drove.
Looks like his little Hime has a guardian angel.
Hidan wanted to laugh out loud. Hizashi had an entire army of Hyugas that night. But he slipped right into the compound, under all of their noses and grabbed the man from his slumber. Seeing that Hiashi was stingy with the security code to the compound he had to torture a guard to get it.
It was the same guard that he used to make it seem as if Hizashi Hyuga died in a head on collision. The body was so charred the coroner couldn't tell squat. While Hiashi thought that his brother died in that car wreck he was actually still alive.
In fact he was alive for several days before Hidan was finished playing with him.
"Thankfully the rain has let up," Neji said. "And here's my stop. You can just drop me off at the gate."
"When can I see you again?" Hidan paralleled parked a few meters away from the iron gate of the compound.
"I guess whenever we bump into each other again. Since it happens so often."
Leaning over, Hidan brushed a damp strand of hair out of Neji's face. He felt satisfaction when the boy's breath hitched. "What if I can't wait that long?"
Biting his lip, Neji leaned over as well. His nose brushed against Hidan's cheek as he titled his head; their lips were dangerously close. "You can find me on Facebook." Neji pulled back and smirked. "I'm sure there's a few pictures on there. Thanks for the ride." He opened the door and stepped out of the car.
When the door closed, Hidan laughed as he watched Neji walk off. There was an odd feeling in his chest, it was a warm sensation. Shrugging, he chalked it up to heartburn and drove off.
Neji was almost to the compound when Tokuma pulled up next to him and he got in. Walking five miles while it drizzled wasn't fun. He just didn't want Hidan to be seen by anyone in the compound.
"I feel like I must apologize for my earlier statement." Tokuma said once they started to move.
"It's not that big of a deal." Neji brushed off the apology. "I understood what you were aiming for. It's okay."
"You didn't answer my question. Do you fancy him?"
Frowning, Neji raked his fingers through the ends of his hair to untangle it. "Stop saying 'fancy' like you're some Duke or an Earl."
"What should I say?"
"You can use the term 'like' and the answer is I'm not sure."
"I don't think you should fanc...like him." Tokuma didn't know the guy, but he knew a predator. And there was no doubt in his mind that the guy was a predator. But he would have to continue to follow his orders and not engage him.
The drive was short, when they pulled up to his uncle's house the rain had finally stopped.
"May I ask you about your friend Tenten." Tokuma asked while they walked up the steps to the mansion.
Slowing his steps, Neji went into protective mode instantly. "What about her?"
"Is anyone courting her?"
"Courting?" He didn't understand why the man talked as if he were in a Jane Austen novel. "Are you interested in Ten?"
The front door to the house opened and Tenten and Hinata walked out.
"There you are!" Tenten walked over with a disapproving look on her face. Her hair was free of her signature buns and was hanging over her shoulders.
Out of the corner of his eye, Neji saw Tokuma was staring at her. Then he glanced at Tenten who was looking at Tokuma as well. Neji and Hinata's gazes finally locked and they read each other's mind.
Ship.
"Where have you been?" Tenten had her focus back on him and she cracked her knuckles.
He looked over at Tokuma for some kind of support but the traitor bowed his head. "I must take my leave. The life of a branch member can be very time consuming."
Unbelievable. Tokuma had just stolen the line he used to get out of unwanted socializing. When the man walked off, he was left at the mercy of two very fed up women.
...
They were in Hinata's bedroom. Neji was up pacing the floor while the two girls sat on the bed mesmerized by his tale of alley brawls and hot sex.
It was like an erotic audiobook.
Clearing her throat, Tenten raised her finger to ask a question. "What's this magical spot you keep referring to?"
Hinata nodded her head. "I was a little lost on that as well."
Pursing his lips, Neji tried to think of how to properly word it without being too vulgar. When the women cornered him as soon as he made it home, he decided to be completely honest. But maybe he revealed a little too much.
Thankfully, Hanabi was out with friends.
"The magical spot," Neji knit his brows together. "It's...kinda...the location is...my...um." He floundered for the right words.
The girls shared a look then squealed childishly. "It's okay, Neji we get it now!" Hinata's face was so red he could swear he saw steam coming out of her ears.
"Holy smokes, Neji!" Tenten beamed at him. "So tell us! Is Itachi packing?" She winked at him.
"Packing? To move? I'm not sure."
The silence became awkward. Tenten and Hianta just stared at him; waiting for the light bulb to come on. But it never did.
"Come on Hyuga, use your context clues. Is his dick big or what?" Tenten asked boldly.
To his shock, Hinata nodded her head in agreement and even made a suggestion. "Just show us with your hands." His shy -not so shy anymore - cousin said.
"This conversation isn't supposed to be going like this." He raked his fingers through his hair.
"Okay. Just this one thing then we can get serious." Tenten promised him.
Both of his fine brows rose at the curious women. After everything he said the only thing that they were curious about was Itachi's size. Giving in, Neji thought about Itachi's length and he used his hands to show them.
"Great Buddha!" Hinata's eyes widened and she stared at him with her mouth wide open.
Tenten was speechless and her left eye twitched spasmodically. She felt as if her brain was frying from an overload. But it was all worth it. Brain cells be damned.
"Now that we have that out of the way. No more sex related questions."
"Agreed!" The two girls replied.
"What did you like about him?" Hinata asked quietly. "As a person?"
What did he like about Itachi? Several things obviously, but mainly the small insignificant things.
Like how either before or after sex Itachi was going to take a bath or shower. Even when they were in Tengoku, he was adamant about that. Neji was sure that there was a logical explanation for it so he never questioned it.
Itachi was intelligent; yet there were simple things that he didn't know and Neji enjoyed it when the man would listen so intently when ever he would explain things to him.
Though it was one of the most terrifying things that he had ever heard, he loved Itachi's laugh. It was the sound a melodramatic villain made after a monologue declaring world domination.
Neji knew that all of the things that listed didn't seem like much, but he really couldn't explain it.
"Sometimes love doesn't need an explanation." Hinata said after he finished naming all of his reasons. " I think you and Itachi are star crossed lovers."
Doomed from the very start.
"Woah he watched you while you slept and you enjoyed it?" TenTen asked. "Man that's some intense loving. Do you think he's obsessed with you?"
Yes and the feeling is mutual. "I doubt it." Neji said. He wasn't ready to admit that to anyone. "Remember he did choke me and leave me unconscious on my sofa." He reminded them but mainly himself.
"Do you know why he did it?" Hinata asked. She was still on the fence about the entire situation. It had always been a habit of hers to look at everything from both sides of the spectrum. "Not saying that what he did was right, but do you think there's a reasonable explanation?"
"A reasonable explanation?" Tenten threw her hands up in exasperation. "This is the same person who handled a dead body like it was a mannequin. What kind of explanation would he need?"
"There could be a logical explanation." Hinata argued and glanced over at Neji. "Have you done any research on the Uchiha Affair?"
Of course he had. It was during one of the nights that he woke up from a nightmare where Itachi was choking him. He'd powered up his laptop and read article after article. Than he found a picture of a thirteen year old Itachi covered in blood as held his younger brother. Afterwards he felt an irrational rage towards every person that took a picture instead of consoling the boys.
Maybe Itachi was insane but who wouldn't be remotely insane after that?
"I don't know why Itachi did what did what he did." Neji took a deep breath. "But I..."
Tenten and Hinata moved closer to the edge of the bed waiting on him to say the words that they had been waiting to hear.
"I still..."
This was a never before seen moment. Neji was actually expressing himself openly.
Hinata could feel her eyes burning from unshed tears of happiness.
Tenten wished that she had her phone close by so she could capture the moment.
"I love him."
Neji flinched from the loud cooing sounds that the two girls made as they swooned over what he just said. It was the first time that he had ever admitted it out loud. He suppose that it felt kind of...nice.
He just wished that Itachi was around so that he could hear it as well.
Clasping his hands together, Orochimaru spun around and flopped on the huge bed with a giddy expression on his face. His insides quivered in anticipation as he thought about Itachi's request. The sheer beauty and power of the Uchiha was mesmerizing. He'd known that there was something special about Itachi when he first laid eyes on him.
"You can't possibly be considering this."
Orochimaru rolled over until he was lying on his stomach with his legs lifted behind him. His dark air spilled over his shoulders and the kimono dipped revealing his pale chest. While swinging his legs back and forth he frowned. "Why would I turn down such an offer? You heard Itachi-kun, he wants me."
Removing his glasses, Kabuto took the the hem of his shirt and cleaned the lenses. "I'm sure it's just a ruse to lower your guard." He placed the glasses back on and saw the way the warlord was looking at him.
"Do not forget that once the curtain closes you are no longer in charge." Orochimaru flipped his hair over his shoulder. "I want a session with him. Make it happen."
"Sir," He sighed exasperatedly. "His mission was to kill you. Allowing him that kind of control over you could be fatal. Also let's not forget our plans for Konoha."
With a loud yawn, Orochimaru placed his chin on his hand modestly. "Can't you just drug him?" He paused to think then smiled. "What about that new concoction that you were working on?"
"Cursed Seal of Heaven?" He quirked his lips at the name. "I haven't tested it on any of the subjects. It could easily back fire."
"Would that be bad for me or him?"
Kabuto took a step closer and kneeled on the bed. "For him." He crawled until he was close enough to lean in for a kiss.
Orochimaru lifted his hand in his face to admire his neatly manicured nails; blocking the man's kiss. "Don't you have to work to do." He waved a dismissive hand. "Go now. I must prepare myself."
"What about Madara? He is still waiting for the confirmation on Itachi's death."
"Well then send it." Orochimaru stood up and began to undress. "Although, I do not plan on killing Itachi. No. I'll keep him here with me forever and ever." He hummed contentedly as he continued to remove the obi of his kimono.
"Don't forget that you have a meeting with Kazekage Rasa."
"I suppose I can't cancel seeing that war is approaching." Irately, Orochimaru stomped his feet. "Fine, but tomorrow cancel all of my meetings. I want the full day dedicated to my Itachi-kun."
"Of course, I'll go administer the drug now. It'll take some time for the effects to kick in."
Orochimaru removed the first layer of his kimono. "You really think you can just walk in his room and prick him with a needle? Itachi-kun would murder you." He laughed.
Kabuto bristled at the insult but ignored it. "I have other methods."
Patiently, Itachi waited in the lavish room that they escorted him to. If his plan worked not only would he kill both Orochimaru and Kabuto but he would have a chance of making it out of the country alive. Although he was still unsure of his chances with Neji, he couldn't just give up so easily.
Slanting his eyes to a sound coming from the other side of the room, he got up to investigate. When he crossed the floor he could see that it was only the air conditioner. Sighing, he stood there for a moment and enjoyed the cool breeze.
Since when did he go down without a fight? He'd survived much worse than any matters of the heart. Even if Neji decided that he never wanted to see him again, that didn't mean that life was over. Itachi wanted to see his brother and Naruto go to college and he wanted to peel the flesh off of his uncle's bones. Yes, there was so much more in life. He was tired of letting Madara win. That faded glory and reverence only lasted for so long. It was high time someone ended him. He would take up Jiraiya's offer and join ANBU, if only to put an end to his uncle.
Itachi smirked at the thought of the tracker that he planted in Kakashi's sack. The device would lead the captain straight to him just in case he was planning some sort of retrieval mission.
If - no, when he returned to Konoha he planned on talking to Neji. He needed to know if they had even a fraction of a chance together. As long as Neji wanted him as well there was nothing that could keep him away from the man. Itachi was aware of clan practices and could assume that Neji was more than likely betrothed to some woman.
But the Hokage herself couldn't keep him away from Neji. He'd like to see anyone try.
Itachi walked away from the air vent and headed over to sit on the bed. There was a slight pain building behind his right eye but he dismissed it. When he sat on the side of the bed he stretched his arms above his head.
"Such a good boy."
Slowly, he turned his head turned around and his entire body froze at the sight.
Danzo was there, on the bed with -
"Sasuke?!" Itachi tried to move so he could get his brother away from that fiend but his body wouldn't move.
"You were supposed to take care of him, Itachi." His mother's voice called to him in the dark recesses of his mind.
"Sasuke?!" Itachi jerked his head and willed his body to move. Once he did the apparition disappeared.
He stood up from the bed and clutched his hands to the side of his head, it was throbbing so bad. The overwhelming pain brought him to his knees and he screamed in agonizing torment. Itachi feared that he would pass out from the pain.
It was as if he was thirteen years old again. Vulnerable. Alone and weak.
Itachi's loud screams filled the entire tenth floor of the tower. He was a rod in a lightening storm. A rag doll in a hurricane.
Then they were all standing around, taunting him. Every person that he ever killed was there in the room. The bedroom was overflowing with the sins of his past.
On hands and knees, Itachi crawled into a corner and covered his face. "This isn't real. This isn't real!" He repeated to himself with tears streaming down his eyes.
"Oh but it is real, Itachi."
He peeked through his hands to see Madara towering over him. "It is very real." His uncle sneered at him. "Let's play a game Itachi!" The man twirled around and when he faced Itachi again there was a knife in his hand.
"Bring him to me!" Madara commanded.
Itachi watched as two faceless men that he murdered in the past dragged a person over to his uncle. His throat tightened painfully at the sight of his little brother naked and bruised. It was supposed to be him that Danzo defiled not Sasuke.
"Let him go!" His voice sounded weak to his own ears.
Outside of the room, in the hallway, Kabuto listened to Itachi break apart piece by piece. "By this time tomorrow you'll be new and improved, Uchiha-san." He chuckled as he walked off.
All of his worse fears came to life that night in that room. He watched his little brother die in front of his eyes. The promise he made to his mother - broken. The image turned into him standing over Sasuke's corpse with blood splattered on his face.
The apparition's eyes shone an insidious shade of red like burning coal. It was his true form - a red eyed demon.
The light inside of him was burning out and he tried desperately to hold on to it. Like a child he called for help. Called out for his parents. Called out for the only people that he considered family: Kisame, Sasori and Konan; he even yelled Kakashi's name.
But nobody came.
"Neji!" He finally called out on a broken cry.
Nothing.
So he surrendered to the darkness within. It was his only chance of survival and he was tired of fighting it. Tired of pretending to be something that he wasn't.
It was as if he was trapped inside of his body while he watched someone else take over. All of the thoughts that he had been suppressing were finally allowed to roam freely.
His tortured screams eventually turned into a diabolical laugh.
Itachi's mask of sanity had finally slipped.
"I thought this was a rescue mission not a fucking camping trip, yeah!"
The Akatsuki - sans Pein and Hidan - were sitting around a campfire in Shikkotsu Forest. Decked out in all black, the four assassins were preparing their selves for the mission of their lives. They were practically going against an entire country- four against a nation. The only thing driving them to succeed was their deep desire to save a friend.
Well except Deidara. He was just there out of respect for his partner Sasori and his fondness of the lovely Konan. Not because he cared if the arrogant Uchiha lived or not. At least that was what he told himself.
"Deidara, stop pretending to not be worried about Itachi." Sasori commented dryly as he looked over blueprints.
"Who says I'm pretending?"
Kisame snorted. "Cut the crap blondie, you're not fooling anyone."
"Kisame's right Dei," Konan smiled at him mischievously. "We all know that you have a crush on Itachi."
Flustering, the pyromaniac tried to steer the conversation away from his possible crush on the Uchiha. "Why wasn't I supposed to mention this to Hidan again?"
"Because he's utterly insane. But I've told you that before."
The two partners stared at each other across the flickering flames. Deidara could tell that Sasori knew he was still fooling around with Hidan despite being warned not to. Feeling guilty he tore his gaze away and focused on the C4 in his bag. He had brought enough to blow Otogakure to the moon.
"How long before we get there?" Kisame asked for the fifth time that day. His hands were itching with anticipation. After they get a hold of Itachi he wanted to pay a visit to Madara. He was beyond tired of the man's bullshit.
Sasori continued to read over the blueprints, memorizing the layout of Hebi Tower. "We'll be there by tomorrow evening. If there are no bumps in the road." He said.
"But those bumps can be easily trampled on." The large man chucked as he polished his blade.
It was true. Anyone that even thought about getting in their way was going to be annihilated.
Konan looked around at the three men. The people that she considered to be her family. To the outside world they were all monsters with no sense of humanity but she knew the truth. They were all orphans either abandoned at birth or their parents were dead. She felt sick to her stomach as she recalled the things she had to endure in order to make enough money for food.
It was a horrid existence that resulted in her inability to conceive. But that didn't deter Yahiko from loving her. Eventually she obtained the family that she had longed for.
Though her sons were a little rough around the edges and wouldn't allow her to dote on them, they were still hers. And she couldn't wait to get her other son out of Otogakure.
"You're giving us that look."
Konan looked over at Kisame who was giving her a toothy grin. "And what look is that?" She asked.
"That dorky look."
"That motherly look, hn."
"The look that says you're contemplating a group hug." Sasori said without looking up from the map. "Which is not going to happen."
Pouting, Konan crossed her arms under her chest. "You guys are the worse."
"Don't worry, mommy dearest. Just know that the feeling is mutual." Kisame scratched the side of his face. "Not the whole group hug shit though."
"Don't be like -"
Simultaneously, four heads jerked in the direction of the sound of a twig snapping. With their weapons drawn they watched a form walk out of the shadows of the forest. Then the form morphed into four people.
"What do we have here?" The man in front removed the lit cigarette from his mouth and smirked.
"Oh great! It's the fucking boy scouts!" Kisame growled as he stood up with Samehada held firmly in his grasp.
Asuma Sarutobi dropped the cigarette to the ground and stepped on it. "Anko," He spoke to the woman with spiky purple hair. "Call the Cap' and relay our location."
The woman, Anko, kept her gaze on Konan, who waved at her playfully, while she did as she was ordered.
Sasori sighed. "And here's the bump in the road." He stared disinterestedly at the man who had a senbon between his teeth.
"Genma, you take the pipsqueak here." Asuma motioned to Sasori who narrowed his eyes at the insult. "Damn Raidou, I guess you'll have to take on the blonde woman."
"Woman?!" Deidara reached into his bag and pulled out his detonator. There were bombs littered around the campsite and all he needed was one push. "Come a little closer and say that shit!"
"Deidara no explosives. It will draw too much attention." Sasori warned.
Cursing, the blond put the detonator down but kept his eyes on the man Raidou.
Chuckling, Asuma slipped on a pair of specialty knuckle blades. "Looks like you have an admirer Anko." He referred to the way Konan kept watching her. "That leaves me with Kisame."
"Hey! How come he used his name?!" Deidara yelled.
Kisame swung his sword in a large arch and smirked. "Comes with the territory, Kid." Then his smile fell as he rushed Asuma.
Then all hell broke loose.