Chapter 49: Shadows
Chapter Summary: Naruto attempts to shed light on the Uchiha's narrative.
Words: 3,345
Published: 12/20/23
Hokage's Office
Tsunade was impressed with Sakura's studying. "Sakura, you're catching on remarkably well. Your understanding of medical jutsu is truly commendable."
The grateful girl replied, "Thank you, Lady Tsunade. I've always been fascinated by the intricacies of the human body."
"Well, you're a quick learner. With your dedication, you'll become an exceptional medical doctor."
"I appreciate your guidance. It means a lot coming from you."
"I really mean it, Sakura; you'll be a fine medic. You're farther along now than I was at your age."
Sakura blushed and delved deeper into her studies, as Tsunade continued mentoring her, sharing the knowledge she had accumulated over the years.
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Library
Meanwhile, Naruto was immersing himself in the Uchiha conspiracy theories, scrutinizing each account for potential clues about the cryptic message in the ancient script. He corroborated books favoring the Uchiha with books against books suggesting the Uchiha had crafted a false narrative of their suffering.
He measured books by Uchiha against books by non-Uchiha, whom he learned through the books could be described by Uchiha in their language as zluten, meaning other people.
Jeez, I can see why people might not trust 'em...
As the day continued, he absorbed more books on the history of the clan, getting to the point that he'd dismiss schoolbooks for their more-controversial counterparts. He began to take notes, writing in a notebook what he was reading, and forming different possible realities from it.
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Sunset
Tsunade and Sakura, after a long day of studying, decided to check on Naruto. They found him sitting at a table in the library, still taking notes and reading.
Sakura smiled as she inquired, "Naruto, have you found anything interesting?"
Naruto continued looking up to and from his notes. "Yeah, there's a lot of speculation and theories, but nothing concrete yet. It's like trying to piece together a puzzle with vandalized pieces."
Tsunade sighed. "Naruto, there's something that you need to know..."
Naruto and Sakura looked up at her curiously.
The hokage admitted, "The official sequence of events regarding the Uchiha Clan has been tampered with historically. We acknowledge that there's falsehood mixed in with it, but the sequence of events we've retained are roughly coherent and serve the purposes of the Village. We only present it as the unadultered truth for the sake of unity, to serve the Will of Fire."
Naruto was exasperated. "But Granny, doesn't the village deserve to know the truth? The Will of Fire shouldn't be based on lies. How can we trust the ideals we uphold if they're built on deception?"
Tsunade leaned on the table. "Naruto, sometimes the whole truth can be more damaging than smaller lies. People need stability and unity, especially in times of crisis."
Naruto crossed arms. "Unity built on falsehood isn't unity worth protecting. We can't keep pretendin' everything's a certain way when it's not. Shisui must've been onto that, and he was trying to uncover the truth."
The woman sighed. "I understand your frustration, Naruto. But revealing certain truths could lead to chaos and discord. It's a delicate balance."
The boy was firm in his resolve. "Maybe it's time we challenge that balance! People deserve to know the truth about history, even if it's uncomfortable."
Sakura's reply was supportive. "Naruto has a point, Lady Tsunade. We can't keep perpetuating lies. The village can handle the truth."
Tsunade rubbed her temple. "It's a real risk, Naruto. Are you prepared for the consequences?"
Naruto nodded. "I am. The village needs to grow beyond the shadows of its past."
Tsunade warned him, "The Village isn't ready. Until it ceases to serve the Will of Fire, the official story will remain what it is, and our entire system of government will uphold that."
Naruto argued, "Our entire system of government's been subverted, and I'm supposed to act like it's all fine? I won't pretend that what the textbooks say is true, when it clearly isn't. It's..."
Sakura interjected, "Unconscionable."
Naruto added, "Yeah, that."
Tsunade sighed again. "It's not that simple, you two... Just be careful if you're going to try and spread this around."
Their discussion lingered in the air, echoing the tension between preserving a carefully crafted narrative and facing the uncomfortable reality of hidden truths.
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Middle of Village, Night
As Naruto and Sakura walked to the latter's house, they continued conversing about the revelations.
Naruto began running a hand through his hair. "Sakura, it was just... I couldn't shake this feeling of frustration. We're living in a village built on lies, and it seems like Granny's okay with it."
Sakura was sympathetic. "I get it, Naruto. It's tough to grapple with the idea that our history might not be what we were taught."
"Shisui was onto something! He wanted the truth out there, but even Granny's proppin' up lies!"
"Change is hard, especially when it challenges the very foundations of what people believe in. But sometimes, you have to confront the uncomfortable to create a better future."
"I just wish it didn't feel like I was pushing against the whole village. The more I learn, the more I question everything."
Sakura placed a hand on his shoulder. "We'll keep on figuring it out together."
As they continued their conversation, the weight of their discoveries and the challenges ahead loomed over them, creating a sense of determination to unravel the secrets that had long been buried in the shadows of the Hidden Leaf Village.
Naruto proposed, "You know what, Sakura? I think I'm gonna dig deeper into this. See if there's more out there. Internet forums, maybe?"
"Forums? You mean like online discussions?"
"Yeah. Sometimes people share things online that aren't so easy to find anywhere else. Maybe we'll find something that connects the dots."
"Sounds like a plan. We're going to my house anyways, so you're welcome to use my computer."
"Thanks, Sakura. I just feel like there's more to the story, and I want to uncover it. Shisui left us a clue, and I want to follow it through."
"I'm with you, Naruto. Let's get to the bottom of this, find out the truth, and make sure Shisui's efforts weren't in vain."
"Yeah. It's time to shed light on the shadows and figure out what's really going on. We owe it to Shisui and everyone who believed in a village built on truth."
As they headed to Sakura's house, a newfound determination propelled Naruto forward, making him ready to explore the depths of information hidden in the virtual realms of the growing novel web of the internet.
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Sakura's Room
The curvy, bulky, pink-and-white monitor glowed as Naruto and Sakura delved into the vast expanse of internet forums, navigating through threads and discussions that ranged from the plausible to downright zany. As they scrolled through the digital realm of shared knowledge, they encountered a myriad of perspectives and theories surrounding the Uchiha Clan's history.
As Naruto was scrolling, he remarked, "Some of these theories are wild, Sakura. People really come up with some out-there stuff."
Sakura smirked. "Well, the internet is a breeding ground for speculation. Let's consider everything and see if we can find a common thread."
Naruto raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, but there's a fine line between speculation and pure fantasy. Take a look at this one—claims Madara Uchiha was actually an alien-human reincarnate trying to infiltrate the village."
Sakura laughed. "Seriously? I guess everyone has their own take on history."
"Yeah, but I guess we should focus on the more grounded theories? Like this one suggesting a hidden agenda within the village leadership during the Uchiha Clan's rise in power."
"That's more plausible. Shisui did leave you that coded message. Maybe there's some truth hidden beneath the surface."
They continued to sift through the digital labyrinth of information, analyzing theories, weighing evidence, and searching for any nugget of truth that could shed light on the obscured history of the Uchiha Clan. The glow of the computer screen illuminated their faces, reflecting the intensity of their shared determination to uncover the hidden truths within the virtual realm.
Sakura stifled a yawn, the late-night hour finally catching up with her as Naruto scrolled through the seemingly endless threads on her computer screen.
Naruto noticed her fatigue and suggested, "Hey, Sakura, it's getting pretty late. You should get some rest. I'll head home too."
"Yeah, you're right. It's been a long day. I've got another lesson with Lady Tsunade in the morning."
"We'll pick it up tomorrow. Get some good sleep."
As Naruto made his way toward the door, Sakura impulsively stood up and, to his surprise, planted a gentle kiss on his cheek.
Naruto, blushing, asked, "Uh, what was that for?"
Sakura smirked. "Just because I wanted to. You've been so... you today."
Naruto, still slightly taken aback, grinned in response. He sheepishly replied, "Well, anytime you need me, you know where to find me."
With that, Naruto bid Sakura goodnight, leaving her with a lingering smile on her face as he ventured into the quiet night, the door softly closing behind him.
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Penthouse
Anko, noting Naruto's return, approached him with a discerning look.
She said, "You okay, kid? Funerals can be tough."
Naruto told her, "Yeah, I'm doing all right. Sakura and I spent some time together after, so it helped."
Anko adorned a curious expression. "Oh, did it now? Well, don't go bottling things up. If you need to talk, I'm here."
"Thanks, Anko. I appreciate that, but I'm good."
Anko, disregarding Naruto's attempt to politely decline, enveloped him in an unexpected hug.
"Sometimes, you just need a good squeeze, you know?"
Naruto, caught off guard but appreciating the gesture, found comfort in the unexpected warmth of the embrace.
"Yeah, I guess you're right. Thanks, Anko."
As Anko released him, Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the unspoken support he found in that simple, yet reassuring, hug.
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Naruto's Room
In the quiet solitude of his luxurious room, Naruto lay on his bed, surrounded by the subtle opulence of Shisui's penthouse. The weight of the day's revelations pressed on his mind, like a tapestry woven with threads of doubt and curiosity.
His thoughts meandered through the labyrinth of doubts, contemplating the intricacies of the village's past.
Are the stories we've been told really just illusions? A carefully crafted narrative to maintain order above all else?
As he mulled over the enigma that surrounded the Uchiha Clan, a subtle shift occurred within Naruto. The relentless optimist within him stirred, eager to uncover the obscured truths.
Maybe... just maybe, I can unravel these lies. Shed light on the shadows that linger in the village's history.
With newfound resolve, Naruto's mood transformed from the weight of uncertainty to the optimism of a seeker, ready to embark on a journey through the corridors of hidden narratives. As he closed his eyes, the promise of discovery guided him into a restless yet hopeful slumber.
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Next Morning
After freshening up in the early light of morning, Naruto, fueled by a fervent desire for truth, delved into the world of anonymous online forums. His fingers danced across the keyboard as he opened an account under the aliases PizzaLover, concealing his identity to navigate the labyrinth of conspiracy discussions.
Madara's deceit, the Showa proposal... what are they hiding about the Uchiha Clan's past?
He meticulously pieced together fragments of information, distinguishing fact from fiction in the vast sea of speculative narratives. The virtual realm became his clandestine workshop, where ideas flowed like digital currents, carrying whispers of hidden truths.
The official version is just a mask. We need to find the threads that lead to the real story.
As he engaged with various threads, Naruto unearthed divergent perspectives and conflicting accounts. The online discourse became a tapestry woven with skepticism, skepticism that mirrored the doubts germinating within his own mind.
If the village has kept this hidden for so long, there must be something they don't want us to know.
The hours passed, each keystroke resonating with determination. Naruto's journey into the digital realm mirrored the quest he undertook in the physical world—a quest for truth that would reshape the foundation of his understanding.
I won't let them bury the past. I'll uncover the hidden layers, no matter where they lead.
With the sun climbing higher in the sky, Naruto continued his digital investigation, challenging the boundaries of secrecy that veiled the Uchiha Clan's history.
As Naruto delved deeper into the intricate web of online discussions, he felt a surge of urgency to bring the discourse into the realm of tangible actions. The virtual interactions sparked a desire for face-to-face discussions, where individuals behind the usernames could share their insights and perhaps unravel the clandestine threads that bound the Uchiha Clan's history.
PizzaLover: Hey, what if we meet up in person? We can organize for real that way.
However, the response he received was far from welcoming. Accusations flew like digital arrows, labeling Naruto as a potential Leaf agent seeking to entrap them or initiate illegal surveillance.
HandyAndy: Lol no
EclecticKing1: Nice try, Leaf spy! We're not falling for your tactics.
SexMonster88: This is a setup! They want to silence us, and you're their puppet.
The suspicion echoed through the virtual corridors of the forum, casting a shadow over Naruto's attempt to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds. Recognizing the inherent mistrust that surrounded his affiliation with the Leaf, Naruto hesitated.
Guess living in a Village with tough shinobi comes with its own set of trust issues. I can't blame them.
Acknowledging the futility of convincing the skeptical users of his genuine intentions, Naruto reluctantly abandoned the idea of a real-life meeting. The weight of his duty as a Leaf shinobi loomed over him, creating an impassable barrier between his quest for truth and the delicate threads of trust woven within the clandestine community.
I can't risk exposing Leaf secrets or compromise their trust. Maybe I'll find another way to unravel this mystery without breaking my oath.
With a resigned sigh, Naruto refocused on the digital realm, navigating the intricate maze of online discussions while grappling with the paradox of his dual existence—a seeker of truth bound by the responsibilities of a shinobi sworn to the Leaf.
A sudden flash on the screen caught Naruto's attention. The forum, once a beacon of potential insight and collective wisdom, now stood as a desolate landscape. His virtual journey had hit an unexpected roadblock, leaving him stranded in the digital void.
Banned... just great.
As he stared at the message proclaiming his expulsion from the forum, a heavy sigh escaped him. The intricate threads of conspiracy and truth he sought to unravel had snapped, leaving him isolated in the vast expanse of the internet.
Guess they didn't like my suggestion. Thought I could find answers here.
The ban felt like a digital exile, a reminder of the limitations imposed by the very shadows he sought to illuminate. Frustration and disappointment mingled within him as he pondered the significance of this setback.
I've hit a dead end here. Maybe I need to find another angle, another path to untangle this mess. Can't let a ban stop me.
Despite the setback, Naruto's determination flickered like a resilient flame. The ban might have closed one door, but the labyrinth of secrets surrounding the Uchiha Clan's history still awaited his exploration. With a resolute gaze, he closed the browser, ready to embark on a new approach in his quest for truth. The shadows may obscure, but Naruto Uzumaki, shinobi of the Leaf, was not one to be deterred by the fleeting darkness of a banned account.
In the labyrinth of uncertainty, Naruto's mind sparked with the brilliance of an idea. The ban from the online forum had veiled one avenue, but the village itself harbored a potential ally – Ebisu, the jack of all trades and harbinger of skepticism towards authority.
Ebisu-sensei might just be the key I've been missing. He's got a nose for he's paid for.
The prospect of enlisting Ebisu's aid in his quest for the Uchiha secrets brought a renewed sense of anticipation. Naruto envisioned Ebisu as a seasoned guide through the murky waters of clandestine information, someone unafraid to question the narratives woven by those in power.
If anyone can help me unravel this mess, it's him. I'll bet he's even got his own stash of hidden knowledge.
Armed with newfound determination, Naruto set out on a quest of a different kind – one that involved the cobblestone streets of the village and the enigmatic figure of Ebisu, whose insights could potentially pierce through the veils of secrecy shrouding the Uchiha Clan's past.
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Ichiraku
Naruto, spotting Ebisu engrossed in a bowl of ramen at Ichiraku, approached cautiously, aware that he was about to venture into a realm where every favor came with a price.
Naruto greeted, "Hey, Ebisu-sensei, mind if I join you? Got something important to discuss."
Ebisu, setting down his chopsticks with a measured look, gestured for Naruto to take a seat. "What brings you here, Naruto? I trust it's not just for the pleasure of my company."
Naruto leaned in. "Actually, I need your help with something. A bit of... unconventional research."
Ebisu smirked. "Unconventional, you say? Pray tell, Naruto, what's in it for me?"
"I'll make it worth your while, sensei. Consider it a payment for your expertise."
Ebisu leaned back. "Payment, you say? Now, you've piqued my interest. What sort of expertise are we talking about here?"
Naruto proceeded to lay out his quest for information, the intricacies of Uchiha history, and the suspicions gnawing at the edges of the official narrative. He emphasized the potential revelation of hidden truths that even someone as well-versed as Ebisu might find intriguing.
He added, "I know you're not one to blindly accept what the village feeds us. Help me dig deeper, and there's something in it for you, Sensei."
Ebisu, stirring the remaining noodles in his bowl, contemplated Naruto's proposition, his sharp eyes gauging the sincerity in the young ninja's gaze. "Well, Naruto, you've painted quite the picture. I suppose I could spare some time for your cause. Just remember, this assistance of mine won't come free."
"Deal, sensei. I'll make sure it's worth every bit of your expertise. Let's dive into the shadows and uncover what they're hiding."
Ebisu's wry smile hinted at the intrigue that lay ahead, as Naruto found an ally in the pursuit of hidden truths within the village's tangled history.
The blonde reached into his pocket to pull out his wallet. Ebisu, observing Naruto's readiness to part with cash, raised a hand to halt the transaction.
"Hold on, Naruto. Just this once, we can settle payment after the task is complete. Consider it a delay on your investment in the pursuit of knowledge."
Naruto, slightly surprised but appreciative of Ebisu's approach, nodded in agreement. "Fair enough, Sensei. Let's get to work, and we'll settle the deal when we've uncovered what we're looking for."
Ebisu acknowledged with a nod, and with that unspoken agreement, they set the terms for their collaboration, embarking on a journey into the shadows of hidden truths within the village.