Apologies again for the late update. Writter's block really had me with this chapter. I want to announce that it might be a while for me to update, as:
1. Writter's block
2. the computer I use at home I having problems
I am still grateful for all the support from everyone.
Chapter 9: Tensions & A New Allie
The final bell at The Ninja Academy rang loudly, signaling the end of another school day. The voices of children filled the air as students filled out of the building. Many ran towards parents and other family members who waited outside the gates for their return; while others walked on their own, some companied by friends. Three of the students included Sasuke, Sakura and Naruto, who planned to walk home together. However, that plan was cut short at the sight of two older Uchiha's waiting for young Sasuke. It wasn't unusual to see his brother coming to collect him, but the sight of his cousin, especially after the conversation he last had with his brother, did make him cautious. Trying to seem suspicious to his friends, he led them over to hi brother and cousin.
"Itachi-nii, Shisui-san I didn't know guys were coming to pick me up. My friends and I planning to walk each other home." He said as he reached them.
"I know I didn't tell you this morning, but I thought I would surprise you." Itachi answered back with a smile.
"So, these are your new friends Sasuke-san. Why not introduce us." Shisui said with a grin.
"Right, this is Sakura Haruno and Naruto Uzumaki. Guys, this is older brother Itachi and older cousin Shisui."
After they exchanged greetings, Sakura and Naruto decided to leave; with a promise from Sasuke to hang out tomorrow, as they left for home. Knowing the conversation that was about to happen Sasuke followed his siblings as they walked through town. Stopping at a store to collect some drinks, they lead him to a section of the woods, were they wouldn't be disturbed. As they walked in silence, Shisui's mind was still trying to piece together what Itachi told him earlier, before they decided to collect Sasuke from school.
"Shisui, Sasuke knows about what the Clan is planning. He knows about what the village elders think about our family, especially about what Danzou is planning to do to us. He knows about what happened during and after the Kyuubi attack and how we are secretly watched and monitored by the ANBU. Shisui, Sasuke knows everything."
'Sasuke knows everything. But how, how does he know. Did he overhear some of the Clan members randomly? Did he try to sneak into a meeting, how?' Shisui's mind was like a tornado with th way his thoughts were flying. What's worst, is that after Itachi's confession, he didn't tell him how or why Sasuke had this information, or even how long he had it. All he said was that Sasuke would explain it himself when he's ready and they were going to pick him up from school. Shisui tried to calm his raging thoughts as best he could, but it was becoming increasingly difficult the further they go, knowing they getting to the spot they picked out earlier.
Lost in thought, he took him a few seconds to realize they were already there. The three boys sat under a tree, with Shisui facing his cousins. After a few minutes of silence, Sasuke faced his cousin and took a deep breath.
"Shisui-nii, what I'm about to say and do is a complete secret. I was the one who told Itachi that you should know about this. If I just tell you, it might be hard to believe, show showing you would probably be easier. Just promise me you won't freak out too much, okay."
Shisui who had been quick the hold time, still couldn't bring himself to speak. So instead, gave the boy a nervous nod of his head. Glancing at Itachi, the young one moved a little closer to his cousin and then transformed. The reaction brought a similar result to how Itachi reacted. Once they had calmed him, Sasuke immediately activated his Sharingan allowing his cousin, to be pulled into his memories. To say Shisui was shocked was an understatement. The boy walked around, his mind trying to come to terms with what just occurred. Glancing back, he realized Sasuke had reverted back to his normal form and was watching him with worry and concern. Itachi, also had some concern showing in his eyes. Leaning against a tree he gave them a small smile, to show he was alright and needed some time. And that, it was they gave him. Silence filled the area as each Uchiha had a mind filled with thoughts.
After what seemed like hours, but was only 30 minutes, Shisui moved back to his young cousin and gave him a warm hug. The gesture surprised Sasuke for a second, before he returned the gesture. Itachi watched the two, a smile appearing on his face, as his body began to relax. Shisui shifted his body, so he was leaning against the tree, with Sasuke lying against him. After a few seconds, Itachi joined them, lying next to Shisui. Itachi understood what his cousin was going through, as it took him days, before he full impact of what Sasuke went through and what it meant for their future. And so, the boys relaxed in the area, trying to enjoy the peace that surrounded them, until having to return to the compound. Shisui wondered how the two; Sasuke especially was able to go about his day, knowing what was about to take place, was the result of his family's decision.
'This isn't something he should have to go through. It's not his fault. He was never to be involved, yet he has to carry everyone's burden.' Shisui's thoughts turned sad as he gazed at the young boy, rubbing his head as the boy lightly rested against him. He turned to look at Itachi, whose eyes where closed his head tilted towards that sky. As he looked at his two cousins, he began to wonder how their differently their life who have been if they were born into a different family.
'Both of them would have had a proper childhood. Itachi wouldn't have forced to grow up so fast and Sasuke wouldn't have to deal with some pain and sorrow.' It was then his mind was clear. He was determined to do whatever it takes to make sure Sasuke's memories aren't repeated. That the future was changed, even if it meant going up, and betraying his own family.
