A few hours later, Natsu slowly stirred awake, the world around him quiet and unfamiliar. The softness of the blankets wrapped around his small body felt foreign, as did the warmth that cradled him. His eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the gentle morning light streaming through the curtains. His mind, still foggy from sleep, took a moment to process the strange but comforting environment.
As he sat up slightly, a strange sensation crept over him—like he was being watched. His instincts kicked in, and his eyes snapped fully open, only to find two pairs of large, inquisitive eyes staring right back at him, mere inches from his face. Two children, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and amusement, hovered so close to him that he could feel their breath on his cheeks.
Before Natsu could react, small hands suddenly reached out, and with surprising speed and mischief, grabbed hold of his cheeks, pulling them apart in exaggerated, playful tugs. The sharp sting of pain jolted him fully awake, his mouth forming an "O" of surprise as his eyes began to water. He felt his breath catch, a small sob starting to rise in his throat as the pain and shock overwhelmed him.
Just as he was about to cry out, the door creaked open, and a familiar voice rang out, gentle but firm. "Hey, you two!"
The voice cut through the chaos like a soothing balm, and Natsu immediately recognized it as Mikoto's. She stepped into the room with an air of calm authority, her dark hair swaying gently with each step. Her eyes glimmered with both amusement and mild exasperation as she took in the scene.
"What did I tell you about playing nice?" Mikoto chided softly, her voice carrying the weight of maternal love. She strode over to the bed, crouching beside Natsu and offering a light, playful flick to each of the children's heads. "That's not how you say hello."
The two children immediately let go of Natsu's red and swollen cheeks, their mischievous grins transforming into sheepish smiles. They stepped back, their laughter bubbling up despite the scolding. Natsu, now free from their grasp, rubbed his sore face with both hands, his heart still racing from the shock. He could feel the warmth of tears threatening to spill, not from the pain but from the suddenness of it all. His face throbbed, and his mind struggled to make sense of the situation.
Mikoto's warm presence beside him calmed his nerves. She placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, her touch light and comforting. "I'm sorry about that, Naruto," she said gently, her eyes filled with sympathy. "Sasuke and Kiyomi can be a little too eager sometimes."
Natsu blinked, still feeling dazed. His gaze shifted from Mikoto to the two children now standing beside her, their curious eyes still trained on him. His heart skipped a beat when Mikoto introduced them.
"This is my son, Sasuke," she said, motioning to the boy with the spiky dark hair, who had an air of mischief in his wide, bright eyes. "And this is my daughter, Kiyomi," she added, gesturing toward the girl beside Sasuke, who looked almost identical to him—her eyes dancing with playful energy.
Natsu's mind reeled with confusion. Sasuke has a sister? That wasn't right. He had never heard of Kiyomi in the stories of Naruto. Sasuke had always been an only child, isolated in his loneliness. But here she was, standing beside her twin brother, smiling brightly. His heart raced, the weight of this new information pressing heavily on his chest. It felt like the world he thought he knew was slowly shifting, and he was struggling to keep up.
As if on instinct, Natsu reached out and gently patted both Sasuke's and Kiyomi's heads, offering them a small smile despite the whirlwind of thoughts racing through his mind. Sasuke and Kiyomi giggled in response, clearly delighted by the attention. But Natsu's mind continued to churn, the confusion gnawing at him. Why hadn't Naruto ever mentioned her? What had changed?
Mikoto, sensing the quiet storm of emotions in Natsu's eyes, chuckled softly. "Don't worry," she said, her voice filled with a kindness that eased some of the tension in his chest. "You'll get used to them. They're always full of energy, but they mean well."
Despite the lingering confusion, Natsu couldn't help but smile. There was something about Mikoto's gentle presence that made everything feel less overwhelming, even as his mind raced to catch up with this new reality.
With a final smile, Mikoto stood and motioned toward the door. "Come on, let's head to the kitchen. I made breakfast, and we don't want it to get cold, do we?"
Natsu nodded, slowly climbing out of bed and following her and the twins toward the dining room. But before they could take more than a few steps, Mikoto surprised him by pulling all three children—Sasuke, Kiyomi, and Natsu—into a warm, enveloping hug. She held them close, her embrace tender but protective. The warmth of her body, the gentle pressure of her arms, filled Natsu with a sense of safety he hadn't felt in a long time.
It wasn't just a hug—it was something more. It was a promise. A promise of love, care, and security. And as Mikoto's arms held him, something inside Natsu shifted. A lump formed in his throat, and he blinked rapidly, trying to keep the sudden surge of emotion at bay. It was overwhelming—the kindness, the warmth, the feeling of belonging.
Mikoto released them, smiling warmly as she guided them toward the kitchen. "Let's go before the food gets cold," she said, her voice light and full of affection.
As they entered the kitchen, Natsu's eyes widened in surprise. The table was covered in plates of food—far more than he had ever seen at once. The smell of freshly cooked breakfast filled the room, warm and inviting, and Natsu's stomach growled loudly in response. He couldn't help but stare at the spread before him—bowls of rice, grilled fish, eggs, miso soup, and an assortment of pickled vegetables. His mind struggled to comprehend it all. It was more food than he had ever seen in one place.
Mikoto noticed his hesitation and offered him a soft, encouraging smile. "Go ahead, Naruto. Eat as much as you like."
Natsu sat down at the table, still unsure of what to do. He reached for a bowl of rice, his hands trembling slightly as he picked up his chopsticks. The first bite of warm food hit his tongue, and before he knew it, he was eating—slowly at first, then faster as his hunger took over.
But as he ate, something strange began to happen. His vision blurred, and before he could stop it, tears began to fall. At first, they were slow, silent tears that slipped down his cheeks unnoticed. But soon, the tears came faster, harder, until he could no longer hide them. His chest tightened painfully, and the sobs he had tried to stifle now rose uncontrollably to the surface.
Mikoto, who had been watching him quietly, felt her heart clench. At first, she hadn't understood why he was crying, but as she saw the way he ate, the way his body trembled with each bite, it dawned on her. This child… this must be the first time he's had a proper, warm meal.
Her chest ached with pity and sorrow as the realization settled over her. How could anyone let a child go without such simple, basic needs? She had heard whispers of the neglect Naruto had suffered, but seeing it now, with her own eyes, filled her with a deep, burning protectiveness.
Without saying a word, Mikoto placed a hand on Naruto's back, her touch gentle and reassuring. "It's okay, Naruto," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "You're safe here. Eat as much as you want."
Natsu couldn't respond. He could only nod as the tears continued to fall. But he ate, and with each bite, he felt something inside him slowly begin to heal. The warmth of the food, the kindness in Mikoto's eyes, and the laughter of Sasuke and Kiyomi around him—it was all more than he had ever dreamed of. And for the first time in a long time, Natsu allowed himself to believe that maybe, just maybe, things could get better.
As Mikoto watched him, her heart swelling with both sadness and hope, she made a silent vow. She would protect this boy. She would make sure he was loved, cared for, and never went hungry again. No more pain. No more loneliness. Not while she was here.
In that moment, in the warmth of the Uchiha household, Natsu felt something he hadn't felt in a long time: hope.
Mikoto gently closed the door behind her children, their excited footsteps fading into the distance as they ran outside to play. The room felt suddenly heavy with silence, contrasting with the laughter that had filled it moments before. She turned to face Naruto—no, the boy sitting quietly at the table, who looked so small and out of place. His red hair was striking, a vivid reminder of someone long lost to her. He sat with his shoulders slightly hunched, his wide eyes flickering nervously.
She knelt in front of him, her expression soft but curious. "Naruto," she began gently, though she could see a flash of tension run through him at the sound of the name. She continued, carefully choosing her words. "I noticed something about you. You can make clones, can't you?"
For a moment, Natsu froze. His heart quickened. How does she know my name? He thought, fighting to keep his expression neutral. He wasn't supposed to be here as Naruto, but the situation was far too complicated to explain. He couldn't tell her the truth—about who he really was, or where he had come from. Instead, he had to play along, keep up the pretense, as difficult as it was to hear that name attached to him.
His hands fidgeted in his lap, trying to mask his rising anxiety. "How do you know my name?" he asked softly, letting his confusion show, as if he really didn't understand.
Mikoto smiled gently, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder. "I know your mother, Kushina Uzumaki," she said softly. "We were close friends, before you were born. You look just like her… and when I saw you, I recognized you immediately."
Natsu's breath caught in his throat. He knew that Mikoto had been close to Naruto's parents, but hearing her speak Kushina's name with such warmth and familiarity stirred something deep inside him. He had to act as if this was all new information, even though it felt like a piece of a history he wasn't meant to live.
"Who… who are you?" he asked, keeping his voice as innocent as possible, playing the role of a confused child who didn't know the full truth about his lineage.
Mikoto's smile deepened, her eyes filled with a tenderness that made Natsu's heart ache. "I'm Mikoto Uchiha," she explained, her voice soft. "Your mother, Kushina, was my dear friend. She used to talk about you all the time when you were just a baby." Her expression grew wistful, as if recalling the many memories she had shared with Kushina. "She loved you so much, Naruto."
Natsu blinked, his heart squeezing at the mention of Kushina's love for Naruto. It was difficult, pretending not to know the weight of those words. But he stayed silent, his throat tight as he nodded slowly, as if processing what she was saying for the first time.
Mikoto watched him carefully, her motherly instincts telling her that this boy—so small, so fragile—needed more than just understanding. He needed protection. He had no parents, and yet he carried the weight of something much bigger than any child should. She wouldn't let him be cast aside or forgotten, not like this.
"You're stronger than you know," Mikoto said gently, her eyes soft but serious. "But even the strongest people need someone to look after them."
She reached into her robe and pulled out a necklace—an elegant silver chain with an intricate Uchiha crest hanging from it. She held it out to him with care. "This necklace… it will help hide who you are, at least from those who might try to harm you. It'll make you look like one of us, like an Uchiha. No one will recognize you for who you really are."
Natsu stared at the necklace in her hand, unsure how to react. He hesitated, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. Could he accept something like this? Should he? But as he looked at Mikoto, saw the kindness in her eyes, he felt a strange sense of comfort. This wasn't just about hiding—it was about being given a chance to belong.
Slowly, he reached out and took the necklace from her, his fingers trembling slightly as he held the Uchiha crest. He slipped it over his head, the pendant resting against his chest, feeling both foreign and protective.
Mikoto smiled, her heart warming as she saw him accept the gift. "But," she said softly, her tone growing serious again, "you must never take it off. As long as you wear this, you'll be safe. But if you take it off…"
She didn't finish the sentence, but the unspoken warning hung heavy in the air. Natsu nodded, understanding the gravity of her words. "I promise," he whispered.
Mikoto's hand gently brushed his red hair from his face, her touch tender and filled with affection. "You remind me so much of your mother," she whispered, almost to herself, her voice filled with a quiet sorrow. "Kushina was strong, like you. But she always made sure to protect those she loved."
Natsu looked up at her, confused by the sudden wave of emotion in her voice, but he said nothing. He didn't know how to respond to the warmth and care she was showing him. In his world, he had always been on the outside, always alone. But here, with Mikoto, there was something different—a sense of safety he hadn't felt in so long.
Mikoto wiped away the tear that threatened to fall from her eye. She had to remain strong, for him. "Go play with Sasuke and Kiyomi," she said softly, her voice steady once more. "You're safe here, Naruto. Always."
Natsu nodded, still feeling the weight of the necklace around his neck as he stood and walked toward the door. As he stepped outside, the sound of laughter greeted him—Sasuke and Kiyomi's playful voices echoing through the garden. For a moment, Natsu stood there, unsure of what to do. But then, with a small smile, he ran toward them, the warmth of Mikoto's kindness still lingering in his heart.
Inside, Mikoto watched from the window, her expression bittersweet as she thought of Kushina and the boy now running through her garden. She would protect Naruto, as she had promised her friend long ago. He was loved, and she would make sure he always knew it.
For Kushina. For Naruto. For the future they both deserved.
Mikoto leaned closer to the shadows, her voice soft but carrying an air of authority. "So, Hōjō and Daisuki, what do you think about your new 'son?'" Her eyes flickered with a knowing glint as she glanced toward the window, where Naruto—still playing with Sasuke and Kiyomi—seemed to laugh freely, though Mikoto knew it was only a surface-level innocence masking deeper pain.
Daisuki, who stood to her right, stepped forward first. His tall, lean figure cast a long shadow, his dark blue kimono draped effortlessly over his athletic form. The bandages wrapped tightly around his chest and arms were faintly visible through the gaps in his kimono, a reminder of the countless battles he had fought. His black hair, slightly tousled, fell over one side of his face, lending him a quiet, almost mysterious demeanor. His hand rested lightly on the hilt of his katana, always poised for action but restrained, showing the discipline of a seasoned warrior.
He glanced at the children through the window, his expression thoughtful, as if analyzing every movement. "He's hiding something," Daisuki said in his deep, measured tone. "There's a guarded look in his eyes. He's observant, more aware than most kids his age. The way he watches everything—it's not just curiosity. He's assessing, making sure he's safe." His gaze darkened slightly as he thought about the conditions Naruto had endured at the orphanage. "Given what he's been through, I don't blame him for being cautious."
Mikoto's lips twitched into a faint smirk. Daisuki had always been astute, and she knew he had a keen eye for observing others. "He's had no choice but to be on guard," she murmured. "Life hasn't been kind to him, but he's stronger than he seems."
Hōjō, who had been standing silently beside Daisuki, took a step forward as well. Her appearance was both graceful and commanding. The loosely worn kimono she donned parted open at her right leg, hinting at the strength of the kunoichi beneath the elegance. The sash around her middle was tied with two long tows, the large bow at her back emphasizing her posture. Her sleeves, long enough to hide her hands entirely, flowed like liquid silk as she moved, the deep violet color contrasting beautifully against her light grey eyes. The soft shimmer of natural makeup brought out the sharpness of her gaze, making her look both fierce and composed.
She tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly as she watched Naruto run past the window, his red hair catching the sunlight. "Lady Mikoto, didn't you ask him about the clone?" she asked, her voice smooth and calm. "A child creating a clone that sophisticated at his age… it's not normal." Her tone wasn't accusatory, just filled with a hint of curiosity. "I can understand why he did it, though," she added, her voice softening. "He was scared, cornered. When you're that terrified, you'll do anything to protect yourself. Running away was his only option."
Mikoto sighed softly, turning her gaze from the window and focusing on the two shinobi in front of her. "Like you said, Hōjō, he was scared. That's why I haven't pushed him about it yet. He'll talk when he's ready. Right now, what he needs more than anything is time. Time to feel safe, to trust us." Her voice softened, but the firmness in her resolve was unmistakable. "We're not the Third Hokage. We won't treat him like a tool."
Hōjō's expression shifted slightly, her smirk fading into something more thoughtful. She understood the gravity of Mikoto's words. "You're right, Lady Mikoto," she said, her voice quieter now. "We can't rush him. He's been through enough."
Mikoto's gaze returned to the children outside. Naruto's laughter filled the garden as Sasuke and Kiyomi chased him around, their carefree voices mingling in the air. For a brief moment, Naruto looked like any other child, without the burdens of his past or the weight of his future hanging over him. But Mikoto knew better. She knew that those moments of joy were fleeting, that deep down, Naruto carried a heaviness that few could understand.
Turning back to the Uchiha before her, Mikoto's tone became more authoritative. "Prepare a room for him. Make it comfortable, welcoming. Get him new clothes too—proper ones. He's not going back to that orphanage. He's staying with us now." Her voice lowered slightly, filled with a quiet determination. "And make sure the clan keeps up appearances. We need to remain proud, dignified. No one must suspect anything unusual."
Both Hōjō and Daisuki bowed deeply in response, their movements fluid and respectful. "Yes, Lady Mikoto," they said in unison, their voices laced with the same resolve that filled the room.
With a final glance at each other, they disappeared from the room in the blink of an eye, their forms flickering as they body flickered away to carry out her orders. Even in their absence, the room felt charged with their loyalty and readiness to act on her behalf.
Mikoto turned back to the window, watching the children play. Her heart clenched as she thought of how much Naruto had already endured in his short life. She had known his mother, Kushina—knew how much love she had carried for her son, how much hope she had placed in him. It pained Mikoto to think that Naruto had been denied that love, growing up without his parents, without anyone to guide him through the darkness.
But now, she was here. Mikoto had made a silent vow the night she found Naruto, standing near the waterfall, lost and alone. She would take care of him. She would protect him. He wasn't just any child—he was Kushina's son, and that was enough for her.
As the sunlight filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the garden, Mikoto allowed herself a rare smile. Watching Naruto, Sasuke, and Kiyomi playing together, she saw the potential for something more—a family, a home where Naruto could finally feel safe.
Her thoughts lingered on the future. Naruto still had a long journey ahead of him, and there would be many challenges, but with her by his side, he wouldn't face them alone.
"Your son, Kushina…" Mikoto whispered softly to herself, her gaze fixed on Naruto, "…he's going to be alright. I'll make sure of it."
With renewed purpose, Mikoto turned away from the window, her heart filled with quiet determination. This was just the beginning. Together, they would build a future worth fighting for.
Natsu watched Sasuke and Kiyomi with growing curiosity. The two siblings were nearly identical in appearance—dark hair and fair skin, the signature Uchiha look—but their personalities couldn't be more different. Sasuke sat by the pond with a serene, almost shy demeanor, his small body perfectly still, eyes closed in deep concentration. There was an intensity to his calmness, a quiet determination that hinted at his inner focus. Kiyomi, on the other hand, radiated energy even as she mimicked her brother's meditative pose. Her posture was the same, her eyes closed just like Sasuke's, but there was a spark of mischief in the way she held herself, as if she were barely resisting the urge to jump up and start another prank at any moment. She had already tugged at Natsu's cheeks earlier, and Natsu couldn't help but smile at how different the two were despite their similarities.
But as he continued to watch them, Natsu's mind drifted. Why wasn't Kiyomi ever mentioned in Naruto's story? He found himself unsettled by the thought. Am I in a different world? The idea sent a chill through him, and he shook his head, trying to dismiss the confusion. Everything felt both familiar and strange at the same time. Kiyomi's presence, Sasuke's gentleness, the warmth of the Uchiha household—it all felt like a puzzle he couldn't quite piece together.
Before he could get lost in his thoughts, Natsu noticed Sasuke and Kiyomi had settled into deep meditation by the pond. Their breathing had slowed, their bodies still. They weren't just sitting idly; they were concentrating, working on something more profound. He tilted his head, trying to figure out what they were doing when he suddenly sensed someone approaching.
Mikoto moved toward him with her usual graceful stride, her expression soft yet filled with pride as she gazed at her children. "They're finding their chakra," she said quietly, her voice filled with a gentle warmth.
"Chakra?" Natsu echoed, though he already knew the answer. He had to act like Naruto—innocent, unaware of the deeper workings of this world.
Mikoto gave a small, knowing smile, kneeling beside him so that she was at his eye level. Her dark eyes sparkled with a mix of pride and amusement. "Yes, chakra," she began, her voice taking on a teaching tone. "Chakra is the energy that flows inside all living things. It's a blend of physical and spiritual power, and with enough training, you can use it to do incredible things—ninjutsu, genjutsu, even taijutsu. But first, you need to learn to find it."
She gestured toward Sasuke and Kiyomi, who remained still, their faces calm and focused. "What they're doing is meditating to sense their chakra. It's not easy, and it takes time. You have to find the energy within you and learn how to control it before you can use it."
Natsu nodded, pretending to absorb the information like it was new to him. He kept his face neutral, but inside, he already knew what chakra was, how to feel it, how to control it. But he couldn't reveal that here—not yet. "So... it's like energy inside me?" he asked, his voice innocent, masking the knowledge he already had.
Mikoto smiled warmly at his question. "Yes, exactly. It's the energy that fuels everything we do. But sensing it isn't always easy, especially for someone who's never tried before. It takes focus and practice."
She hesitated for a moment, watching him closely. "Would you like to try?" she asked gently. "I can help you sense your chakra for the first time."
Natsu's heart skipped a beat. He knew he could already do this, but he had to play along, act the part. This was a moment he couldn't pass up—an opportunity to learn more about Mikoto's world while also keeping his secret. He nodded slowly, as if he were hesitant but curious.
Mikoto's smile widened. She motioned for him to sit beside her, and he did, folding his legs underneath him. Gently, she placed her hand on his back, the warmth of her touch comforting and grounding. "Close your eyes," she instructed softly. "Take deep breaths. In and out, slowly."
Natsu followed her instructions, closing his eyes and breathing deeply. He could already sense his chakra with ease, feeling the familiar warmth pulsing within him, but he pretended to search for it, letting his brow furrow slightly in concentration.
"Now," Mikoto continued, her voice a soft guide, "focus on the center of your body—right here." She lightly tapped his stomach. "That's where your chakra gathers. It might feel like a small flame, or a warm current. Try to sense it without forcing it. Let it come to you naturally."
Natsu focused on the sensation in his core, his chakra already responding. He didn't need to search for it—it was there, pulsing strong and steady. But for Mikoto's sake, he pretended to search a bit longer, keeping his breathing slow and even. Then, after a moment, he opened his eyes and whispered, "I think… I can feel it."
Mikoto's eyes widened in surprise, her hand pausing on his back. She blinked, her expression shifting from proud to astonished. "You… already?" she breathed, her voice tinged with disbelief. Sasuke and Kiyomi had been meditating for weeks, and their progress was slow and steady, as it usually was for children their age. But Naruto—he had sensed his chakra almost immediately. It didn't make sense. It was as if his connection to his chakra was far stronger than it should be for someone so young.
Natsu blinked innocently, feigning confusion. "Is that bad?"
Mikoto quickly composed herself, though the surprise lingered in her eyes. She shook her head with a small laugh, though her tone carried a hint of awe. "No, Naruto. It's… incredible. You sensed it faster than most. Much faster than Sasuke or Kiyomi." She glanced back at her children, still in meditation by the pond, then returned her gaze to Natsu. "It usually takes much longer for children to connect with their chakra like that."
She smiled, though her mind was clearly racing. How could he have sensed it so quickly? Was it his Uzumaki bloodline? She had heard that the Uzumaki clan had vast reserves of chakra, but this... this was beyond anything she had expected.
"You're special, Naruto," she said softly, her tone filled with admiration. "Really special."
Natsu felt a strange mix of emotions—guilt for hiding his true self, but also warmth at Mikoto's praise. He wasn't used to being told he was special, and hearing it from her, someone who genuinely cared, made his heart swell with emotion. He smiled up at her, feeling a bit lighter, though the weight of his secret remained.
Mikoto stood, her eyes still lingering on him as she processed what had just happened. "Keep practicing," she said, her voice gentle but full of pride. "You've taken an important first step, and with time, you'll learn to control it even better."
As she walked away, Natsu remained seated, his mind buzzing with thoughts. He had impressed her, but now there was more pressure to keep up the act. Yet, for the first time in a long time, he felt… hopeful. Surrounded by people who cared, he was starting to feel like he belonged—if only for a moment.
Mikoto, meanwhile, couldn't shake the feeling of amazement. Naruto… she thought as she watched him from a distance. There's something truly extraordinary about you.
A few hours had passed, and Natsu watched as Sasuke and Kiyomi, who had been diligently meditating by the pond, finally grew restless. Their attempts to find and control their chakra had given way to boredom, and the two siblings exchanged tired glances before standing up and stretching. Kiyomi, ever curious and full of energy, looked over at Natsu and grinned mischievously.
"Hey, you were meditating with us, right?" she asked, her head tilted slightly as her eyes gleamed with interest. "Were you also trying to find your chakra?"
Natsu nodded, keeping up his innocent façade. "Yeah," he replied, scratching the back of his head. "Your mother taught me how to do it, but… it's kind of hard."
Sasuke, who had been brushing off his pants, turned toward Natsu, a hint of surprise in his eyes. "Don't worry, you'll get there," he said encouragingly. "It took me a week to sense mine."
Before Natsu could respond, Kiyomi rolled her eyes and playfully smacked Sasuke on the head. "A week?" she scoffed, grinning. "Wasn't it more like two weeks, Sasuke? Don't go acting like you're some chakra master! I did it in one week."
Sasuke rubbed his head, grimacing at the playful hit. "No way," he protested, clearly defensive. "I did it in a week too!"
Natsu couldn't help it—the sight of the two bickering reminded him so much of his own sisters back in his old life, how they'd argue over trivial things like clothes or toys. He burst out laughing, the sound ringing through the garden as Sasuke and Kiyomi stopped their playful squabbling to stare at him. His laughter felt good, almost freeing, and for a moment, he felt the weight of his worries lift.
Kiyomi's eyes sparkled as she smiled wide, clearly enjoying the sound of Natsu's laughter. "By the way," she said, her tone shifting from playful to inviting as she leaned in closer, "you wanna come with us and play?"
Before Natsu could ask what kind of game they were planning, Kiyomi darted over to a nearby rack, grabbing a wooden sword and tossing it over to Natsu with a smirk. Sasuke, not to be left behind, grabbed one for himself as well.
Natsu caught the wooden sword with a bit of surprise, his curiosity piqued as he looked at the siblings, who now both wielded their wooden weapons with practiced ease. "What kind of game are you guys going to play?" he asked, feeling a bit out of place but intrigued.
Kiyomi's smirk deepened as she twirled her wooden sword in her hand, her stance shifting into one that mimicked a seasoned swordsman. "Sword fight!" she declared confidently, her eyes full of determination. "We're practicing our sword skills, so one day we can beat Itachi." Her voice held a competitive edge, and it was clear that she and Sasuke both held their older brother in high regard, not just as a sibling but as a rival they aspired to surpass.
Sasuke nodded, his expression more serious now as he held his sword ready. "Itachi is really strong," he added, his voice carrying a mix of admiration and resolve. "We need to train if we want to catch up to him."
Natsu's eyes widened slightly as he took in their determination. He had always known about Itachi's strength from the stories, but seeing Sasuke and Kiyomi like this—so driven, so focused on surpassing their brother—made him realize just how much of an impact Itachi had on them, even at such a young age.
Kiyomi grinned and handed Natsu a wooden sword, her enthusiasm contagious. "Come on! Let's see what you've got, Naruto!" she urged, clearly excited to test him in their little game.
Natsu hesitated for a brief moment, feeling the weight of the wooden sword in his hands. He hadn't really practiced with swords before, but seeing Kiyomi and Sasuke so excited, he couldn't help but feel drawn into the fun. He took a deep breath, gripping the sword a bit tighter before stepping forward, his heart racing with a mix of anticipation and excitement.
"Alright," Natsu said, smiling back at them. "Let's do this!"
Kiyomi wasted no time. With a playful shout, she lunged at Natsu, her wooden sword swinging toward him with surprising speed and precision. Sasuke followed suit, flanking from the side, their movements synchronized as if they had practiced this a hundred times before.
Natsu reacted quickly, raising his sword to block Kiyomi's strike, the wooden blades clashing with a satisfying thwack. The impact jolted through his arms, but he managed to hold his ground. As Sasuke came in from the side, Natsu spun on his heel, narrowly avoiding Sasuke's strike before countering with a playful swipe of his own.
The sound of laughter and clashing wooden swords filled the garden as the three of them sparred, their movements quick and fluid, but always with a sense of playfulness rather than seriousness. It was clear that Kiyomi and Sasuke were skilled for their age, their techniques sharp and well-practiced, but they also left room for fun, teasing Natsu as they danced around him with their wooden weapons.
For Natsu, the sword fight was more than just a game—it was a moment of normalcy, a chance to feel like a kid again, free from the weight of his past and the uncertainty of his future. As he parried Kiyomi's playful strikes and blocked Sasuke's determined blows, he felt a warmth in his chest, a sense of belonging that he hadn't felt in a long time.
For a moment, everything else faded away. There were no secrets, no burdens—just the sound of laughter, the thrill of the fight, and the bonds forming between them.
And for that brief, beautiful moment, Natsu allowed himself to just be a kid, playing in the garden with new friends, feeling the joy of living in the present.
A few hours passed, and Natsu sat quietly, watching Sasuke and Kiyomi as they grew restless by the pond. Both had been meditating, trying to find their chakra as their mother had taught them, but the calm focus they were supposed to maintain had slowly crumbled under their youthful energy. Sasuke stretched first, letting out a soft sigh of frustration, while Kiyomi huffed, clearly bored, her mischievous spirit getting the better of her.
Natsu's gaze lingered on them both, noticing how much they looked alike yet carried themselves so differently. Sasuke had a quiet, gentle demeanor, always trying to stay composed. Kiyomi, on the other hand, was brimming with playful energy, like she was always one second away from pulling some prank. She had already tugged at his cheeks earlier, laughing with a light that made Natsu feel something he hadn't in a long time—companionship.
But even as he watched them, questions buzzed in his mind. Why wasn't Kiyomi mentioned in the stories? It gnawed at him, the uncertainty creeping up, leaving a chill that made him feel lost. Am I in a different world? The thought scared him, a sinking feeling twisting in his gut. He wanted answers, but they felt just out of reach, shrouded in a fog of doubt.
His thoughts were interrupted when Kiyomi bounced over to him, her eyes shining with curiosity. "Hey, Naruto! You were meditating too, right? Were you also trying to find your chakra?" Her voice was light, teasing, and filled with the boundless energy only a child could have.
Natsu blinked, pulled out of his thoughts, and gave her a small smile. "Yeah, your mom showed me how, but… it's kind of hard." He played along, feigning innocence, pretending he was struggling with something he had mastered long ago. The lie felt heavy, but it was necessary. He couldn't let them know the truth—not yet.
Sasuke, who had been watching quietly, stepped closer. His expression softened with encouragement, the kind you wouldn't expect from someone so young. "Don't worry," he said with a gentle smile. "It took me a whole week to sense mine."
Before Natsu could respond, Kiyomi rolled her eyes dramatically and swatted Sasuke on the back of the head, grinning. "A week? More like two! You're always trying to look cool, Sasuke." She puffed out her chest. "I did it in one week!"
Sasuke rubbed the back of his head, frowning. "No way! I did it in a week too!"
Watching the playful bickering between them stirred something deep in Natsu's chest. It reminded him so much of his own sisters, the way they'd argue over silly things, making a big deal out of nothing just because they could. He missed that—missed the warmth, the chaos, the sense of belonging. Before he realized it, a laugh escaped his lips. It was light at first, but then it grew, filling the garden with a sound he hadn't heard from himself in what felt like forever.
Both Sasuke and Kiyomi stopped arguing, their eyes wide as they stared at him. But instead of being offended, Kiyomi grinned even wider, clearly thrilled to have made him laugh. "Hey, Naruto," she said, her voice full of excitement, "do you want to play with us?"
Before he could answer, Kiyomi darted over to a nearby rack and grabbed a small wooden sword, twirling it in her hand with more enthusiasm than skill. Sasuke followed suit, grabbing one for himself. They both turned back to Natsu, their faces lit up with excitement, eyes gleaming with a mixture of mischief and determination.
Natsu stared at the wooden sword Kiyomi handed him, feeling its weight in his hands. He knew how to use a sword, far better than they could ever imagine. But right now, he wasn't supposed to be Natsu—he had to be Naruto, a two-year-old boy who had never held a sword before. The realization made his heart ache with the burden of pretending, but he shoved those feelings down, focusing on the game at hand.
"What kind of game is this?" he asked, trying to sound as innocent and clueless as possible.
Kiyomi smirked, her eyes gleaming with challenge. "Sword fighting!" she declared proudly. "We're practicing to get stronger, so one day we can beat Itachi!"
Sasuke nodded, his face serious, his wooden sword held tightly in his small hands. "Itachi is really strong. We need to get better if we want to catch up to him."
The mention of Itachi sent a pang through Natsu's chest. He knew the future—he knew what would happen to Sasuke, what Itachi would become. And yet, seeing them now, with their innocent admiration and dreams of surpassing their brother, it broke his heart. They didn't know what was coming, and he was powerless to stop it.
Kiyomi shoved the wooden sword into his hands with a playful grin. "Come on, Naruto! Let's see what you've got!"
Natsu hesitated, holding the wooden sword awkwardly, pretending he didn't know how to handle it. He had to stumble through this—he couldn't let them see the truth. His heart raced as memories of real battles flashed through his mind, but he pushed them away. Right now, he was just a two-year-old boy playing a game with his friends.
"Uh… okay," he said with a forced smile, gripping the sword in a clumsy manner, making it seem like he was struggling to even hold it properly.
Kiyomi wasted no time. With a playful shout, she lunged at Natsu, her wooden sword swinging wildly toward him. Natsu raised his sword to block, but he made sure to do it awkwardly, his movements uncoordinated and slow. The wooden blades clashed, and he stumbled back, pretending to be caught off guard.
"Not bad!" Kiyomi cheered, clearly pleased with herself. "You blocked me!"
Sasuke joined the fight, rushing at Natsu from the side. Natsu barely managed to block the strike, again making sure to act as though he was struggling. His heart pounded in his chest, not from the exertion but from the effort of keeping up the act. He could handle them easily, but that wasn't the point. He had to fit in.
The three of them laughed and swung their swords at each other, the sound of clashing wood and giggling filling the air. Despite the charade, Natsu found himself enjoying the moment. It wasn't about winning or losing—it was about the connection, the shared joy of playing together like normal children.
But even as he played, there was a sadness that lingered beneath the surface. This wasn't his life. These weren't his real siblings. And soon, the peace he felt would be shattered by the truths he couldn't escape.
Still, for now, in this fleeting moment, Natsu allowed himself to laugh and smile, to forget the burdens he carried. He allowed himself to be a child, if only for a little while longer.
Author here: I know some of you have some questions in the first two chapters why I made my readers cried because I found boring making the mc say " yes this the Naruto world where it's dark and corrupt I need to train to survive" also there won't be system sorry to disappoint you guys please support me by giving me a power stone or leave a comment letting me know you guys love my story enjoy your day my fans 😀
Also should I write less?