Chapter 4: Past and Present part 2

This in not my book BUT I have asked for permission from the author but he still hasn't replied if anyone can get in touch with him let him know if he wants me to I can remove it from here

go check out the book at https://www.fanfiction.net/s/13522981/1/Reincarnation-Ok-Pal-The-Story-of-Kenta-Yamanaka-Book-2

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"Oh yes, Ino. You should be afraid. I'm going to break you. I'm going to make you beg for the sweet release of death. You're going to feel everything my father felt, I can promise you that. And then, when your spirit is crushed, I'm going to take everything you hold dear in your life." I was crouched down now, whispering my threats with a lustful tone.

"Kenta, Wh-" Ami cut off abruptly. My paralysis tag activating.

"Don't worry, Ami. I won't kill her. But if she's left in a similar state that Hidan was in, well that just proves her weakness." I purred. Eyes never leaving Ino's.

She attempted to speak. Terrified grunts and moans escaped her frozen lips. But that was all she could manage. I took a deep inhale in, savoring the sheer, unhinged panic Ino was experiencing.

"Now, as I said, you're going to feel everything my dad felt before he died. An eye for an eye, as they say." I made a hand sign. A sign no one had seen in over four years. The last time I used this technique was during my first mission outside the village. The anger and hatred I experienced then were NOTHING compared to my churning storm of emotions right now. I would savor every. Single. Minute.

"Yamanaka Clan Technique: Mind-Body Sear" I whispered almost lovingly into Ino's ear.

Despite the paralytic coursing through her veins, Ino didn't disappoint. Her body, the sheer amount of agonizing pain she was experiencing, pushed some of the effects of my poison out of her system.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Ino screamed in sheer agony.

"Yes, Ino. Scream! Louder! My dad can't hear your pain! This was the first technique he ever developed! My father was a genius! Our clan needed him! You should have died! You're useless! You're pathetic! Yes! Feel! His! PAIN!" I shouted right along with Ino's shriek of pain.

I cackled loudly as Ino's body began to visibly quiver due to the pain she was experiencing.

'Dad, I know you're watching. I know you know this is justice for her weakness!' I thought with euphoria.

Blood began to flow out of my nose at a steady pace. I held the technique. This was necessary. This was needed. This was JUSTICE!

"Louder, Ino! Maybe Dad will lighten up if you-"

CRACK!

I was sent hurtling ten feet away. My body hit the ground and rolled. I shot to my feet, teeth bared in near animalistic fury.

"Kenta Yamanaka." Ami said in a dangerous tone. She too was shaking, but this time in fury. "You have gone TOO FAR! You have no right, NO RIGHT, to be 'Judge, Jury, and Executioner!'"

"Yes I do! She's the reason he-" I was cut off again, as dozens of snakes had erupted from Ami's sleeves. They struck like lightning. Had I not felt the chakra building, I might not have dodged in time. Even in my insane rage, I could still appreciate Ami's growth.

"Your father is absolutely ASHAMED of you right now! It isn't Ino's fault! You KNOW THIS! Your father CHOSE to save Ino. She is his family, his comrade. THAT IS THE TYPE OF PERSON YOUR DAD WAS! You SHAME his memory by acting this way! Leave! NOW! Get out of here! I don't want to see your face until MY KENTA is back. Not this insane imposter! This isn't my captain! This isn't my friend!" Ami's voice was cracking with strain and emotion.

I stared in shock at my teammate. Finally, my brain restarted, the rage fueling me. I sneered at her. "Of course. You pick HER side. I was never anything to you besides a means to an end. You knew you could ride my coattails. Using my name and influence to pull in favors. You disgust me. The weak are drawn to the weak. I don't need you, Ami."

Her chakra roiled, her rage was all consuming. She charged me. I danced effortlessly out of the way. The blazing rage was back to a slow simmer. My emotions were mine, my control was perfect. I leaned casually out of the way as Ami's rage fueled and sloppy punch sailed harmlessly by my face. As fast as the Storm that coursed through my veins, I lashed out. I backed handed her, and as her momentum carried her off balance, my foot lashed out. It connected solidly with her abdomen. I pulled my foot back, and brought it crashing into her side for a final hit. Sending her flying back a dozen or more feet. She hit the ground with a grunt of pain, but was quickly on her feet again.

"Give me the antidote, Kenta, and get the fuck out of here." She hissed in pure hatred. "I don't know who you are. Your dad is gone, dead. He isn't coming back. Your family still needs you. Your team still needs you. Your clan still needs you. Your VILLAGE still needs you! SNAP OUT OF IT!"

I tossed a tiny vial of the antidote. Let her have a small victory. I sent her a scathing look. "Take it. You need to train more, clearly. Your emotional control is shit."

"Fuck you, Kenta! Get. Out. Of. HERE!" Ami screamed, blinking away tears of sheer anger and frustration.

I turned on my heel, tossing a wave over my shoulder. I stopped after a few feet though, and turned back around. Ami had already administered the antidote and was helping Ino to her feet. Whispering comforting words to the crying girl. I smirked.

"Oh, Ino. I've decided. In three days you and I will battle for the title of Clan Heir. It has already been approved by The Three Elders and your dear daddy-dearest. You aren't worthy. A new age is dawning on our clan, and you are too weak to lead us. I have The Knowledge. All our lost history. All our lost techniques." I pointed to my temple. "Right in here. Seeya in a few days, cuz."

I expected Ino's face to match Ami's. Disgust, revulsion, rage, hatred.

I was momentarily stunned. Ino did not show a single one of those emotions. Her face had fallen. Hurt, Betrayal, Sadness. None of what I expected. The bigger surprise was her Chakra was matching. Sorrow, Fear, Betrayal… And Guilt. Ino felt guilty. She knew what I said was right. It should have been her! The rage returned. I left the grounds before I really snapped.

The Mind-Body Sear would have seemed like a tickle technique had that happened.

*********************************KENTA STOP BEING EMO!*******************************

Three Days Later – Yamanaka Clan Compound

"Ladies and Gentleman. Welcome." Inochi's somber voice called out to the majority of the clan that had gathered around the primary clan training ground. "I wish we were here under better circumstances, but a legal challenge has been issued for the title of Clan Heir."

Murmurs of disapproval met Uncle's words. I kept my face neutral. I would show the clan the world of difference between their "Precious Princess" and myself.

"My cousin, Kenta Yamanaka, deems my daughter, Ino Yamanaka, unfit to lead the clan upon my retirement or death. Under the Clan Charter. Article 17, Section 3, Subsection G states that anyone may challenge the sitting head or heir at any moment if both participants meet the minimum requirements. For the title of Heir, they cannot be challenged until reaching Jonin, or hold the rank of Chunin and at least 16 years old."

The murmuring increased and now "subtle" glances of disapproval were being shot my way. Idiots.

"With that being said, the match will be governed by these rules. One, no aiming to kill. We are not a clan of violence unless we have no choice. Two, all techniques B-Rank and below are allowed unless they are labeled as forbidden." Uncle stared at me pointedly at that declaration. Drat. There goes the mind-trap.

"Three, we go until one person surrenders, or if I decide the match is over. Do either participant have any questions?" Uncle's stern voice asked us.

"No, Sir." Ino replied, eyes never leaving me. Her chakra quivered, as did her body. Her nerves and fears were spiking.

I shook my head. Uncle nodded at our replies.

"Then participants, prepare yourselves." Uncle called out loudly. Ino withdrew her Katana. I shoved my hands deeper into my pockets. "BEGIN!" and Uncle jumped to the edge of the arena.

"Give it up, Princess. You're weak. You don't deserve to be head. You'll only lead our clan into mediocrity for the 10th century in a row." I said, voice laced with honey coated venom.

She shook her head. "I cannot do that, cousin. I have plans for our clan. Plans you would ruin by taking my title. I understand your pain. I understand your grief. I know you were right the other day. Uncle is dead because of me. I cannot change the past. I can only continue to move forward and get stronger, so that no one from our clan meets a similar fate." She spoke in a calm and confident voice. Each word strengthening her own resolve, pushing away her fears and doubts.

That wouldn't do.

I shrugged. "Suit yourself." And within seconds, near 100 copies of my handsome face surrounded Ino from all directions. Ino's brow furrowed. Her eyes began darting around the arena, attempting, futilely I might add, to pinpoint my direct. Father himself couldn't sense me until the first last minute, and he was the clan's second strongest sensor. Ino was a featherless fledgling compared to father and me.

I attacked.

My eyes widened as Ino seamlessly turned and parried my attack that had attempted to hamstring her. The kunai I lashed out with was sent spirally away.

Ino smirked. "Don't underestimate me, cousin. Or you'll get embarrassed."

I snarled and disappeared once more. I attacked again, this time, her wide open left flank.

My frustrations mounted as Ino once again seamlessly parried my attack.

What the hell was going on?!

Ino's face flushed in anger. "Seriously! Stop going easy on me!" She flicked her sword, the polished metal catching the sunlight, the ray of light momentarily blinding me. Ino was in my face, her sword whistling its call of death at it approached my face quickly. I bent backwards and away from the attack, smirking when the swing sailed overhead, not even clo-

A stinging sensation and wetness ran down my cheek. I flickered backwards and brought a finger up to my cheek. I pulled away, sticky crimson liquid clung to my finger.

"First Blood, Cousin. You sure talk a big game, but it seems like you're just that, all talk." Ino smirked cockily at me.

I shook myself out of my stupor. A lucky strike, that was all. I molded my chakra.

"Lightning Release: Lightning Beast Running!" I called out. The lightning chakra raced from my fingertips, the silhouette of a jungle cat bearing down on Ino. I vanished, coming at Ino from her blind spot.

Ino danced out of the way of my lightning technique, her sword lashing out towards the direction I was heading. I put on the breaks and retreated back. Close call. I felt another sting.

I looked down, and a small puncture wound was visible through my mesh armor. Nothing major, but that was another wound! What. The. HELL?!

Ino opened her mouth, cocky smirk still in place. I drowned her out, and took a deep breath. Focusing. My emotions have been all out of whack the last week and a half. I need to be push it all away, just for now. I took another deep breath and simultaneously felt the flow of my chakra. This was always a good way for me to center myself and calm myself down.

I felt it.

The sneaky, witch!

"Did you use the momentary blindness to cast your vertigo illusion, or was that the trigger?" I asked in a grudgingly complimented tone.

"You'll have to find out yourself, Mister Genius." Ino sing-songed. Her chakra was steady, in control. Her confidence was skyrocketing. She thought her parlor trick was good enough to defeat me? ME?!

I'm Kenta Yamanaka, strongest in our clan. Surpassing my uncle and father years ago.

This two bit, half-ass, spoiled brat thought she was even in the same league as me?

Playtime is over.

The darkness inside me swelled. It fueled the perpetual rage that had been growing since father's death.

My face morphed into a gruesome mimicry of an impressed expression.

I moved.

Ino's cry of pain was music to my ear. The lightning enhanced palm strike sent its voltage coursing through Ino's body.

"Lightning Release: Paralyzing Palm" I condescendingly informed Ino. "You got cocky, cousin. A few lucky shots and your guard was wide open. I'm not here to stroke your ego and praise the "hard-work" you've done. You've been training seriously for four years. I've been training seriously for thirteen. You're out of your league."

I disappeared. The after-images quickly surpassed 100 this time, and the count continued to climb. Ino's eyes grew wide with panic. Her paltry sensing abilities unable to keep up with my true speed. Kidney, rib, nose, jaw, knee. Ino lay on the ground, panting. My barrage of strikes hitting those five points near simultaneously. She pushed herself to her feet. She was bent over, attempting to gulp down lungful's of air. I sneered at the pathetic display.

I was next to Ino. Index finger mere inches from her temple. It lit up, Storm chakra dancing dangerously mere centimeters from her face. Game over.

I leaned in close. Madness gripping my senses once more. "Say hi to dad for me." I whispered in near childish Glee. Ino's eyes shot open, her mouth opened wide to shout. My technique fired.

Uncle's firm grip on my wrist guided the 'Quick Shot' harmlessly into the sky.

His rage and fury made a pathetic attempt to intimidate me. I loved my Uncle, respected him. But this? Pathetic. Just like the rest of them. A clean slate may indeed be in order.

"This fight is over, Kenta." Uncle growled dangerously. "You forfeit this challenge. By Clan Laws, due to the attempted murder of the current heiress, you will be banned for life from issuing another challenge. I will also be recommending to Lord Fifth that you are mentally unfit to continue your duties as a shinobi. I'm disappointed."

I snarled in rage. "Of course. Make excuses and coddle your "precious daughter." This clan is pathetic! I'm sick of MY name being drug through the mud because you ALL have zero talent and lack any of MY motivation. Every attempt I make at bringing this clan back to greatness is met with hostility and contempt. You all may enjoy being paper pushers, but that WILL NOT be me!"

"You were my brother's pride and joy. You shame his memory with your actions." Uncle replied sadly.

"STOP CALLING HIM BROTHER! He wasn't! He was your cousin, and you're NOT my Uncle!" I shouted, the demons were whispering their outrage at this pathetic farce. I need to strike out. Overthrow Uncle. Take over the clan. Weed out the weak! Start with a clean slate!

My Chakra slowly began to build. Uncle was the only full Jonin in our clan now with father's death. Mom and Kono stayed home, they weren't here. I could wipe out the elder's and uncle right here and now and-

Bone-Deep sadness. Guilt. Regret. Remorse. Pain.

All these emotions poured off Uncle in torrents. I nearly gasped from the intensity.

"Kenta." He said. He met my eye, unshed tears were slowly leaking down his face. "He was my brother. By blood. He wasn't my cousin. Inoko was my dear, loving, caring, kind Elder Brother."

My rage vanished. The world around me seemed to freeze.

"What?" I replied eloquently.

He nodded sadly. Tears were streaming unimpeded now. "When Brother abdicated the position of clan head, we met with the Elder's to discuss the ramifications. We didn't want this." He gestured vaguely around him. "So to make sure the line of succession wasn't interrupted in our own children, Inoko voluntarily had his name struck from the main family line. By birth, you are the heir. Inoko and father didn't want the clan to be divided. This was their decision."

My mind reeled. I was supposed to be heir? Uncle Inochi was ACTUALLY my Uncle? Ino was my FIRST-COUSIN.

"Why tell me now?" I whispered loud enough for him to hear.

"I had no choice. I meant what I said. Your father would be so sad to see you like this. My nephew. The ambitious, loving, caring, smart mouth… Reduced to a rabid beast. Inoko was a master, I know you're trained. You've given into your darkness. If you continue to dwell in it, there's no coming back. If that's the case, I will have zero choice but to banish you from the clan." Uncle said seriously. His tears were dry and he met my eye with a determined gaze. His chakra was steady. He was serious.

"I… I…" I attempted to speak, but the words wouldn't form. I couldn't even form a coherent sentence if I was being honest with myself.

"Kenta. You ARE the pride of this clan. We love you SO much. Everyone. You challenge us to be our best selves. Your goal for greatness has inspired SO many of the younger kids. Look at Kono! She's flourishing having such a wonderful role model to look up to. Do. Not. Lose yourself!"

I looked at Uncle. The raw need and desire to hear his words was palpable.

"How? I can't… So angry. All the time." I instantly turned my head and vomited up what seemed like everything I had ingested the last week. Ino. INO! I almost killed her! I thought about purging the clan! I made plans to murder an unborn child!

Monster.

I was a monster.

My frantic gaze searched the crowd. I needed to climb back to the light. I needed to ground myself. I clumsily fumbled into my pouch, infusing chakra to the seal lining the wall.

Nothing.

I tried again.

Nothing.

"No, no, no. Where is it?" I mumbled in blind panic. I felt a gentle, yet still firm hand grip my shoulder. I reeled back, eyes wide and panicked.

"What are you looking for, Kenta?" Inochi whispered soothingly.

"My book. My note. They. They're all that I had left of Dad…" My sentence trailed off. A hazy memory pushing itself to my active consciousness.

"I don't need this anymore, Dad! I will become what I need to be to keep my promise! I swear on your honor!" I screamed to the heavens. The battered book and crumpled note igniting in flames as the uncontrolled lightning arched from every pore of my body.

My eyes widened. "No, no, no! I need them!" I grabbed uncle's collar. "Please! I… I don't know what to do. They grounded me. Kept me anchored. They're gone. I destroyed them. Please, Uncle." My voice was pleading, laced with emotions.

"Go to the people who can help. You know who they are." He replied gentle. Lovingly. After everything I did. He still cared.

I nodded. And then I was gone.

********************************KENTA IS STILL NOT OK!*********************************

I pounded frantically on the door. My breaths were once again coming in short, panicked gasps.

I continued pounding.

The door opened, concerned orange eyes met my panicked teal eyes.

I grabbed Fú roughly by the shoulders, my lips crashed into hers. I kissed her deeply, roughly, absolutely desperately. Fú was the only one who could help me. I needed her more than water.

Fú roughly shoved me off, her hand made a loud cracking sound and my entire head rang from the force of the slap.

My panicked mind momentarily halted due to pure shock. Fú raised her hand once more. I resigned myself to my fate. Fiance or not, I was rough and out of line. I deserved the beat down I was about to get. If I'm lucky, she will kill me, and this gut wrenching pain I was in would finally end. I could see Dad again…

Her hand gently caressed my throbbing cheek. My eyes met hers once again. Her smile was nothing but warmth and complete understanding. Unconditional love. The same look my father gave me when I bawled my eyes out all those years ago after toying with that Kaguya kid.

"I was wondering when you would come. Chomei has been in an absolute tizzy. Kyubi has been griping and complaining about you for the last week." Fú's casual tone had an instant effect on my tortured soul.

"What… What do you mean?" I asked lamely.

Fú opened her mouth, but before she could answer, a blonde rocket shot past her. Naruto's fist met my face and set me flying back. I crashed into the ground. He was on top of me now. Punch after punch.

"How. Dare. You. Say. Those. Awful. Things. To. Ami!" Each word accompanied by a new punch. Finally Fú's shock wore off and threads wrapped around Naruto, confining him and holding him in place.

"Naruto. Please. Let's let Kenta speak first before we kick his ass from one end of the village to another." Fú chastised half-heartedly. Unconditional love, but definitely pissed. Yikes.

Naruto grudgingly agreed and got off of me. I pushed myself to a sitting position. My face aching something awful. A missing tooth, broken nose, possible double shiner. Naruto didn't hold back.

"Why the face?" I managed to groan out.

"Making the outside match the inside." Naruto's scathing reply came. "If you want to act like a complete monster, might as well look the part."

The rage ignited, it attempted to take control.

It died out as quickly as it was lit.

"You're right. I have been an asshole, haven't I?" I jokingly groaned.

"No. Normal Kenta is an asshole. You've been downright evil and cruel!" Naruto shouted.

I could only nod. He wasn't wrong.

"Come on, Naruto. Ease up. Let's hear him out. He came here for a reason." Fú gently pushed the blonde back a few steps. She then turned and took a step towards me, hands glowing a beautiful green. However, I shook my head.

"Just replace the tooth if you can. Naruto's right. The rest of this can heal naturally." I said.

Fú nodded, grabbing the missing tooth. She placed it back into the empty socket, the cool relief of her healing chakra making me sigh in relief.

"A bruised nose is punishment enough. Don't want that pretty face ruined by a horrendously crooked nose. Only thing you have going for you right now." Fú joked lovingly. At least I hope it was a joke.

Twenty minutes later, my tooth was good as new, and my nose while still sore, was at least straight.

"I…" I started to speak, but words escaped me.

"Come on. Let's take a walk. There's a nice bench by the pond. I go there when I need to clear my mind." Fú suggested helpfully.

I complied, and we slowly made our way to the pond out back. An uncomfortable silence stretched over our group.

We arrived at our destination. Naruto and Fú sat down at opposite ends of the bench, leaving the super comfortable middle seat all mine. I sighed and plopped down between my fiancé and best friend.

The silence stretched on. I didn't even know where to start. I racked my brain, but Naruto came to the rescue.

"This is about your weird mind games and what it does to your own brain, isn't it?" Naruto asked with a frown. The heat from earlier no longer there. I stared at him in shock. I didn't think Naruto knew! I turned to Fú and she nodded slightly.

"We're not idiots, Kenta. We know your M.O." She explained.

I sighed deeply. "It is. Normally, after a fight where I jump headfirst into the darkness, I read a note I wrote down when I was five years old. It was my dad's advice when walking the line practitioners of our art walk. I read it each time. I have it memorized. But something about physically holding it and reading my childish handing writing did more than just regurgitating it out loud."

Neither Jinchuriki said anything, so I continued.

"When my dad died… I… Didn't jump into the darkness willingly. I fell, head first, and began to drown. I've been so angry. My emotions are like a ticking time bomb. I… I've had thoughts. Bad thoughts. EVIL thoughts. I'm disgusted with myself, but… I can't see the light anymore. I'm afraid. I don't want to become the thing my dad warned me about, but I need help finding my way back this time. Now more than ever. I can't do it on my own. Kono. Kono is afraid of me! I scared her! I hurt her! I'm disgusted by myself, but I STILL can't claw my way back to the light!" My control broke, and by the end I was sobbing openly.

Without hesitation, two sets of arms wrapped around me. Soon the back of my shirt and my shoulder joined the front of my shirt in their dampness. Two of the most important people in my life joined their own tears with mine. My sorrow was theirs. My anguish was theirs.

Fú was the first of us to pull herself together. "Since you came back. I've watched you slowly sinking into that darkness. I felt helpless. I knew if I approached you, I might make it worse. I wanted to help you. Hold you and drive your sadness away. But I couldn't and it drove me mad. I haven't slept since you came home. I thought I was going to lose you, love."

I kissed her, much more gently and lovingly this time. "I'm sorry. I need you. You're my rock. My anchor. I need you. I love you." I whispered to my beautiful woman.

"I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. Get it all off your chest. Tell me everything. I will pull you from your darkness, even if I have to dive in head first to do it." Fú's eyes now blazed with fierce determination. The rage in my chest was slowly being smothered. A loud throat clearing had my ears burning.

"Yo. Still here. Be sappy and gross when I leave." Naruto mockingly reprimanded.

I turned to my best friend. My brother. "Naruto, I…"

He held up his hand. "The day you introduced me to your parents was possibly the happiest day of my life. The first time I met them, their eyes were similar to everyone else's, yet they were different. They weren't full of scorn or disdain. They were just wary. I was hopeful. The second time I met them, the wariness was barely there. The third time I met them, their eyes were full of nothing but love and acceptance."

Naruto smiled at the memory. "They were the first, real people that genuinely cared about me. Gramps did his best, but he was Hokage, so he didn't have much time for me. Old Man Teuchi and Big Sis Ayame have always been kind, and they were there to make sure I wasn't starving. Your parents though. They taught me, and not just ninja skills. They taught me manners. They taught me acceptance. They taught me morals and values. They taught me all those things only a parents can teach, ya know?"

I nodded sadly, hearing about Naruto's childhood still left a sour taste in my mouth. Fú's hand reached across my body and squeezed Naruto's hand in comfort.

"Your Dad, Uncle Inoko… I miss him. So much, K-kenta." Naruto's voice broke with emotion at the end. He cleared his throat and continued. "I know that he wasn't my dad, but he's the closest thing I've ever known to a real dad. Every night I try to recall a good memory we had together. There's so many. But then I end up crying myself to sleep, cuz there won't be any new ones. I wish… I wish I could see him one last time, ya know? Say a proper goodbye. Tell him thanks for caring for me."

I nodded in understanding, an idea suddenly overtaking every other thought.

"Come on, you two. I need some actual joy in my life. I have just the thing."

Naruto and Fú stood and joined me. "Where are we going, love?" Fú asked gently.

"My house." I said.

"You have something you need to do first though." Naruto interjected. "Two things really."

I was confused at first, but his meaning hit me like one of the punches he threw earlier. I nodded in resignation. "Ami first, then Ino."

We left the little slice of Heaven that Fú had made her home. I knew that by the end of the day, I would be emotionally run down. Worse than I already was at least.

*******************************Much support, Lol – Lots of Love***************************

I knocked sharply on the cozy little two-story home of Ami's childhood. Three seconds later, the devil herself answered. I opened my mouth and took a breath.

I moved my head just slightly so Ami's fist didn't re-break my nose. I groaned in pain. Her second jab met its mark, the sickening crack sounding for the second time in just a few hours. I tasted the metallic taste of blood flooding my mouth.

"Ok, I deserve-URK" I wheezed, clutching the boys as Ami's quick knee met its real target. I slid to the ground, holding back the tears of pain, subtly checking that both the little ones were still there and not reduced to pulp.

"I was going to continue to pound you face in. But looks like someone already beat me to it." She sent a smirk and wink towards Naruto. "That last hit was every hit I had planned rolled into one. You may apologize to me now for your absolutely BOORISH behavior, Kenta Yamanaka!"

I spent a full minute trying to catch my breath. Ami was very patient when she wanted to be. Finally, the pain receded enough for me to think rationally. The demons growled in warning, the darkness was attempting to reclaim its parasitic hold. A hand and reassuring squeeze from Naruto helped clear my thoughts, banishing the darkness temporarily. This wasn't going to be like the other times. I needed my family and friends if I wanted to pull myself from the darkness this time around.

"Ami. What I said to you. What I did. It's inexcusable. Everything I said, I sincerely hope you know I didn't mean it. I was speaking from a dark place. You know I have nothing but complete respect and admiration for you." I said, completely sincere.

Ami scoffed. "Tell me something I don't know, Yamanaka. You were an absolute brute. However." She bent down until she was eye level with me. "If I let some appalling comments ruin the five year friendship we have, it wasn't real to begin with, was it? I know your style. I know you lash out when you're hurt. I know the more you hurt the nastier you get. You're the brother I never had. You and Naruto. Losing either of you knuckleheads would be devastating. Team 11 is a family. Family's fight. Sometimes viciously. I love you, moron. Make it up to me with an all you can eat dango buffet." A flash of Anko momentarily overshadowed Ami's form.

I smiled in gratitude. "Of course, Ank- I mean Ami. Thank you. This time is bad, Ami. Even now, it's a constant struggle to stay in control. I need you. I need everyone." I was whispering my omission by the end. I HATED being this weak. However, mom would always say, admitting and seeking out help is a form of strength itself.

Ami straightened. "Now, what are we doing? I'm bored. Have you apologized to Ino? The only one that really matters, mister?" Her voice was laced with alarm bells and warnings.

"You were stop one. Ino will be the most draining. Come with us? Going to my place after to give Naruto his present." Ami's eyes lit up in excitement. I had told her what our family got Naruto for his 17th birthday. With everything that had recently happened, now seemed like the perfect time to gift it to him.

Our quickly expanding group left Ami's house and made our way back to my clan compound. This was a conversation I was NOT looking forward to.

*************************Cinnamon Roll Kenta Yamanaka**********************************

I walked slowly to Ino's door. Words were replaying over and over in my mind. How could I even begin to apologize for what I've done over the last three days? I tortured her! I tried to KILL her! Nothing, nothing I could say would EVER make up for what I did.

The rest of my support team was waiting down the road. They all agreed this was something I needed to do on my own. I was nervous. I was afraid without Naruto or Fú with me to drive away the darkness, that I would explode. I needed them. This was a bad idea. I turned around and caught the briefest glimpse of mint green. My resolve strengthened, knowing my support was within intervention distance.

I stopped a few feet from the beautifully hand-carved door that led to the main family house. Finding out just how closely Ino was related to me made the crushing guilt become two-fold. Not that it makes a difference. Ino could be a 5th cousin, twice removed, it still didn't excuse my actions. But this was as close to intentionally hurting my baby sister as I could get without meaningfully hurting Kono. I did a quick scan, Ino's signature was the only one in the house. I took a deep breath and rapped sharply on the thick oak door.

I waited impatiently, Ino's signature slowly making its way towards the door. It paused; she was probably realizing now who was behind the door. The words continued to tumble in my mind as the butterflies seemed to be mating and reproducing at an unnaturally accelerated rate. She stopped. The only thing separating my cousin and I was two feet of solid oak.

The door cracked up, a teal eye poked out from the shadows of the entrance hall. Ino debated momentarily before throwing the door open. She stood tall and proud; her face seemed to be carved from stone. If I ever had any doubt that Ino was born to an old family of nobility, she instantly erased those doubts. She arched a single, perfectly sculpted eyebrow towards me. Her chakra was volatile. Changing between fear and determination each second.

"Yes? Can I help you, cousin?" She asked neutrally.

That was all it took. For the who knows how many times today, I broke down.

I fell to my knees, sobs wracking my body. I wrapped my arms around her ankles, my incoherent babbles of apology barely recognizable through the tears and snot seemingly gushing from every orifice on my head. I never once thought of my animosity or resentment. I never once thought about our past differences. The only thing that dominated my mind currently was the world-crushing guilt threatening to consume me.

I don't know how long I stayed in that position. I didn't care. My dignity and respect meant nothing to laying my guilt and shame at the literal feet of my cousin. My mind replayed the events over the last few days. Ino's screams rang as fresh in my mind as the day I caused them. The demons inside roared their approval at the agony I caused. Kenta though felt violently ill.

I disengaged from Ino's ankles and threw myself to the side of her entryway. I once again emptied all the contents of my stomach. Not having an appetite since the first time this happened just a few short hours ago, not much came up. It didn't stop the dry heaves that wracked my body. My ancestors were punishing me themselves; I just knew it in the back of my mind. Over and over, I retched to the point of near crippling pain. They didn't stop though. My body was attempting to exorcise the demons that had taken up residence. Finally, after what seemed like hours, the violent dry heaves subsided.

I lay there on the cement entryway. Sobbing uncontrollably still. My body shaking with pain and emotions. A feather light touch made its presence known in the middle of my back. The light touch became a soft, gentle hand, rubbing small circles on my back.

"I forgive you, cousin. You're hurting. You're in so much pain. Your logical mind is trying to draw a logical conclusion for an illogical question. You want answers. You keep asking yourself "Why?" There is no answer. Your search is over with. Bad things happen to good people, and there's no reason why it happens. Uncle Inoko was the best of us. Our clan does need him still. It should have been me, and oh I wish it was! Every night I curse The Gods for Uncle's honorable intentions. I'm so sorry, Kenta. You were right. I was weak. I was too confident in my abilities. I made a mistake, and it cost a man I loved very much his life."

"Uncle Inoko was so kind. So, caring. So absolutely wonderful. I miss him, Kenta. Every day. Not as much as you, I know. My heart continuously breaks thinking of you and Kono. I would honestly be worse off than you are if it was my father."

"So no, dear cousin. I don't hate you. I never have. I never will. I love you, with all my heart. I will do everything I can to atone for my weakness, this I promise as heiress."

I looked up at my cousin's eyes. The shade was near identical. Her chakra was calm and welcoming. It radiated warmth and love. Her eyes held kindness and understanding. She wasn't saying what I wanted to hear. She was speaking truthfully and from the heart.

I sat up, my stomach protesting violently at the sudden movement.

"Ino. I thank you for your words. They mean more to me than you'll ever know. But you are wrong. I do not think you're weak. I do not blame you, not anymore at least. You were right. I was attempting to find someone, anyone to take this all-encompassing rage out on. You were the unfortunate victim. You were there when it happened. You were a familiar presence. You've been a part of my life since before we could even speak. It was unfair. What I did to you… I will be the one working every day for the rest of my life to atone for my sins against you."

Ino opened her mouth, but I cut her off.

"Cousin. I tortured you. I nearly killed you. You have nothing to apologize for, and nothing to atone for. The sin is mine to bear, alone."

She nodded. Knowing I wasn't budging on this subject. The glint in her eye told me that we would be rehashing this conversation at a later date, when both of us were in a better place emotionally.

"I wasn't joking or telling lies though, Kenta. I DO have big plans for the clan. I am in complete agreement with you. I'm sick of our clan being seen as weak. I'm sick of our clan being the butt of jokes. Minor clans tout their power over ours, even though we are one of the Noble Clans. It sickens me. You, Kono, and I are just the start to changes I want to make. If you truly wish to atone, then help me. Be my right hand. Let's build a new future, together." Ino offered her hand. I held up mine to show her they weren't in the best shape for shaking. I doubt Ino, no matter how much she's grown, would appreciate a snot filled handshake.

"I will, Ino. Promise. I'm your guy. Your right hand, your man through and through." I paused for a moment; an idea struck me. I had made my decision. I spoke the truth, the universe heard me. I would throw my support in with Ino. We would see the clan rise to new heights. I searched around, knowing what I was looking for would be within ten feet of me. I found it and rushed over to the spicket. I rinsed my hands and splashed the refreshing cool water over my face. No towel, so pants would have to do for now… The back of them.

I approached Ino, hands slightly outstretched.

"Do you trust me?" I asked hesitantly.

"I do." She replied instantly. No hesitation. No second-guessing. No doubts.

I placed my hands on either side of her head, pulling the ancient memories to the front of my mind.

"Yamanaka Lost Arts: Memory Transference" I whispered. Ino gasped, The Knowledge flooding her mind as it did mine that fateful day. Only seconds passed before Ino blinked rapidly, her gaze focusing back on me.

"Kenta," her breathless voice sounded out. "How? I thought you were bluffing. This. This is game-changing. We. That is our clan. We could. Kenta, HOW?!"

I chuckled at her babbling. "I just prayed with my entire being. I prayed for strength, knowledge, skill, and forgiveness. Over and over. And the secrets just… unlocked."

She nodded thoughtfully. "I see. Kenta. We have to begin transcribing everything we know! I know that the Akatsuki threat looms, and you're a big part of the hunting team. But when all this is over, we HAVE to get it all down on paper and into the vault. I will start. You join me when you can. Deal?"

I smiled. "Deal, Heiress." I bowed slightly, and for once, not in a mocking way.

"Kenta. Things are looking up. One day, people will fear the name of Yamanaka once more."

"That's the hope, Ino. Together, we will forge the path."

***********************Don't Know If Line Will Show Up After POSTING***********************

"I'm Home!" I called out. I felt both Mom and Kono's signatures well before I entered the house. Their signatures were as familiar to me as my own. I felt a small presence rapidly approach. The chakra was nervous and apprehensive. I frowned.

Kono's tuft of light brown hair poked around the corner, wary teal eyes shortly followed. Seeing my baby sister look at me in this way. As if I was an enemy on the battlefield, broke my heart into a dozen pieces.

"Big Bro? Is that you? Are you really back, or are you still mad at me?" She asked in a quiet voice.

The dozen pieces shattered to thousands.

I fell to my knees. For the millionth time that day. Tears fell hot and fast down my cheeks. I spread my arms wide. "It's me, Kono. Your Big Bro is back. And I was NEVER mad at you, don't you EVER think that!" I choked out.

Kono crashed into me at full speed, nearly knocking me down. I instantly enveloped her, squeezing her tight. For the first time in my life, and I was just now realizing this, my sister openly wept. A void now occupied the space where my heart had once been. I was the reason my sister was crying so uncontrollably.

"I'm sorry, Squirt. I'm so, so sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. That was the last thing I ever wanted to do. I'm so sorry. I'm back. It's me. Your Big Brother will never scare you again. I'm here. I got you." I continued whispering words of comfort to the most important person in my life. Fú was my rock. My anchor. The love of my life.

Kono though would always be number one. If Fú never understood that she would be second place to my baby sister… Well Fú did understand and accepted her runner-up trophy with pride.

Kono cried for a few more minutes before the tears began to slowly crawl to a trickle.

She smacked me, harder than I thought possible.

I definitely deserved that one.

"Don't you ever do that again, Kenta. You hear me?! I thought I lost you forever." Her eyes once more filled with tears. I grabbed her hands.

"I swear, on everything I hold dear. I will never go anywhere. You hear me? I'll always be here to take care of you. Until you're old and grey, telling your grandchildren stories of your golden days. Got it?" I asked her in a serious tone.

She finally smiled, even if it was barely noticeable. It was just now hitting me how my selfish actions cast a wide net. I was hurting everyone I cared about.

Kono finally noticed the three other people that had been creeping in the entryway this entire time. Her face flushed an adorable shade of pink.

"I'm sorry everyone. It's good to see you all." Kono's quiet apology was barely audible.

I wanted to squeal. She was SO CUTE!

Though her greeting was subdued, her hugs for my friends, people she had known half her life, were no less enthusiastic than they would normally be.

"Where's mom, pipsqueak?" I asked, casting my senses out. Living Room.

Kono puffed her cheeks out. "Don't call me that. I'm the tallest Genin kunoichi this year, AND I'm a year younger. She's in the living room, by the way."

I ruffled her hair, earning a very familiar indignant squawk or protest. The sooner I began to act normal, the sooner life would return to as close to normal as possible.

"You're taking after Dad and I. You'll be tall and deadly in a few years. Now come with us, we're going to give Naruto his present early."

Kono's irritation vanished instantly. She shot off like a rocket, calling out for our mother excitedly.

"What present? And why the heck does it seem everyone knows what it is beside me, eh?!" Naruto grumbled.

"You were gone for three and a half years, moron. Of course, everyone knows what it is. The family has been planning this for years now." I said with a mysterious smirk.

Naruto gave up with a shrug. "I'll find out soon enough. Let's go."

I marched at the head of the group towards the living room. Kono was babbling away excitedly a mile a minute. Mom was holding a photo album in one hand, her other stroking Kono's hair as the young Genin barely seemed to breathe.

"Take a breath, Kono, or you'll pass out from oxygen deprivation." Ami teased lightly.

Mom's eyes found mine. Tears instantly sprang up. She rose gracefully to her feet and crossed the distance between us in a few short strides.

Damnit, Eyes! I've had enough of you. You've met your lifetime quota in a single day! I'm going to surgically get my tear ducts removed.

"My boy. My sweet, baby boy. You found your way back. I thought I had lost you too." Mom whispered fearfully in my ear. She had me in her customary bone-crushing hug. This time, I hugged back just as tightly.

I swallowed the lump in my throat. "Never. Even if I have to bloody my fingers, I'll crawl back to you and Kono or die trying." I whispered, my voice hoarse with emotions.

Mom released me and took a step back. "Saying that, I never doubted you. Your father had a very similar situation when he was just a year older than you."

I took the chair across from the couch. Everyone found a place to sit, Fú choosing to park her rump on my lap. I wasn't gunna complain.

"Really? What happened?" I asked, never hearing this story. I had figured at one-point dad was in a similar position. His warnings were too real to just be repeated words passed from generation to generation. His warning was too raw. Too real.

"Your Aunt died." Mom said simply.

I gaped. "Ok, today is officially my limit for mind blowing and big reveals. I had an Aunt?!" Something tickled the back of my mind when I mentioned big reveals.

Mom nodded, pulling out a different photo album. This one had seen a few years. The cover was battered and stained. The pictures inside though were kept pristine. Mom showed me a picture. I easily spotted Dad. He was a virtual carbon copy of me. Uncle Inoichi was also easily recognizable. Basically, the same as he was today minus a few wrinkles and grey hairs.

"Oh my god. Kenta. You and your dad could have been twins!" Fú said in an awed voice. A foreign emotion reverberated deep in my chest. Pride. A feeling I hadn't felt in what seemed like ages. I know there's no way to claim looking like your father as an accomplishment, but it still made me proud knowing I did.

Mom laughed lightly. "Don't they? Kenta inherited everything from Inoko. The only difference between the two is the hair color. Inoko had the clan signature platinum blonde hair. Kenta's complexion and hair are the only two things that would set them apart. That dirty blonde is the perfect mix of Inoko and I."

I smiled fondly as mom reminisced. I looked down at the photo, noticing a young girl. She had to have been five or more years younger. She bore a striking resemblance to Kono, if I was being honest. The noses were different, and Kono had Dad's strong jawline, but everything else was similar. The shape of their eyes, the slight upward natural tilt to the mouth.

"Why are there so many coincidences? This is my Aunt, yes? Dad is what, 16 or 17 in this picture? This girl who looks like Kono is somewhere between 10 and 12?" I asked out loud. All eyes followed mine. They went back and forth between Kono and the unnamed Aunt.

"They really are similar. Both in age, the age difference, and the girl's looks." Ami mused out loud.

"Yeah! The nose is different, and Kono has slightly wavy hair and it's brown. But other than that, they could also be twins!" Naruto said in wonder.

"Konoko Yamanaka. Your father's youngest sibling. The person he loved more than anyone in this world. Inoichi was the same. They constantly fought over "Best Big Brother" awards." Mom giggled. "Inoko wanted to name Kono after her."

"What happened?" Fú asked timidly.

Mom smiled sadly down at the picture. "War. Her Genin team was sent on a standard courier mission. Little did we know, Iwa had slipped some ambush specialists into our territory. Their mission was to kill as many couriers as possible, crippling communications. Konoko and her team were ambushed. They were all killed." Mom finished sadly.

I glanced down once more at the near carbon copy of my baby sister. A low growl forced its way up from the depths of my very soul.

"Kono!" I barked out, causing the entire room to jump. "We're upping your training, effective immediately. Who's your Captain?"

She smiled brightly. "Yes! More training with Big Bro?! Hell yes!"

"Kono Yamanaka! Just because you are a Genin now does NOT mean you are allowed to use such language. Not while you live under my roof. No ma'am." Mom chastised.

Kono averted her gaze and mumbled out a reply. I caught Kono's eye and gave her a shit eating grin. She glared so fiercely at me, it made me wonder where she learned such beautiful mastery over her facial expressions. Oh right, me.

"Gennosuke Aisawa is my team captain." Kono added hasilty.

I nodded. I knew Gennosuke. He was strong. Jonin, former ANBU. A-Rank threat. Deadly with a blade, using a rare combination of lightning and wind natures. Neither particularly good at keeping my baby sister from harm.

"What time do you meet tomorrow? I need to remind Gennosuke just WHOSE baby sister he is responsible for." I asked/kinda told Kono.

She rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Brother, no. I will train with you, but you are NOT embarrassing me in front of my captain or teammates. They already look down on me for being younger, which makes no sense."

"This is still an ongoing discussion. For now, the real reason we are here." I turned towards Mom and smiled. "Let's give Naruto his 17th present early? I think everyone here could use a good smile."

Mom's eyes lit up. "What a wonderful idea, dear. I'll be right back." She hurried out of the room. We began talking amongst ourselves, waiting on mom's return.

I continued to laugh, make jokes, poke fun, and engage the room. As long as I continued to pretend all was well in the world, then the whispers of the demons and the pull of the darkness were kept at bay.

Mom returned a minute later, holding a large yet thin rectangular box.

"Naruto. Before you open this, I need to let you know of two things. One, you may 100% decline, and no one will be angry or upset with you. Ah, no questions. Just listen, young man." Mom pinned him with a glare. A decade of trying and she still couldn't break that habit of him interrupting someone. "Number two, just know that we have been trying to obtain this since you were seven years old. Due to some… push back from influential figures, among other shady business, it wasn't until Lord Fifth took over that it was finally approved. Lord Fifth actually approved it three months after you left. We were going to give it to you as a coming home present, but with the mayhem that has been going on, we decided that we had waited ten years already, a few more months wouldn't hurt."

Naruto nodded, his face the picture-perfect look of confusion. My heartrate was increasing. This was it. Something I had been asking for since I was six years old. Today would hopefully be the day. Mom handed the box to Naruto. He tore the wrapping paper off as if he were STILL six years old. He opened the box and stared dumbly down. Inside was a framed piece of paper.

"Read it out loud, dear." Mom urged gently.

Naruto cleared his throat while he pulled the frame out and oriented it horizontally.

"This is to certify that Naruto Uzumaki has been officially and formally adopted into the Yamanaka family." His voice cut off abruptly. He stared wide-eyed at Mom; utter disbelief plastered on his face. The raw emotion and hope rolling off him made my heart soar.

"Go on, sweetie." Mom's voice came out huskier than usual. She was fighting the losing battle of the tears.

He cleared his throat. And again. And again. "Formally adopted into the Yamanaka family by Inoko and Tori Yamanaka on October 10th in the year of 1084. Given with hope and love under my hand, Itachi Uchiha, Fifth Hokage of Konohagakure."

Kono's eyes were trained on Naruto's like a hawk. Ami and Fú let their tears fall shamelessly. Identical watery smiles in place. Naruto still looked as though he had been hit with a lightning technique and was trying to remember what his own name was.

"I… I don't know what to say." Naruto's quiet voice cut the silence. "I guess I just have one question. I'm of the Royal Uzumaki line by birth. I have my Uzumaki family to take care of. Does this mean, my last name-"

His words were cut off by mom's super love hug of death. "No sweetie. You would still be Naruto Uzumaki. You're an adult, so there's no obligation. This isn't even formal until you sign the official documents. We just… We've always seen you as a part of this family. I know its 10 years too late, but we still want you to know how much this entire family loves you. This was the best way we could prove that love to you."

That was all she wrote. The dam exploded. Wailing sobs left Naruto. He gripped onto Mom like she was a lifeline. The minutes passed, and Naruto still hadn't calmed down. Mom slowly pulled herself away and placed both hands on Naruto's cheek. Futilely attempting to keep up with brushing away the endless tears.

"Inoko and I have loved you since the moment you stepped into our lives. At first, we were weary of you, I will not lie. But that was ignorance into the complexity of sealing. The second time Kenta brought you to our house, we decided to trust in Lord Minato, and I am so glad we did, sweetie. You're our second oldest son. You're the ray of sunshine this family needs. You bring so much joy and pride to our family, words cannot begin to describe it. We love you, Naruto. All of us, even if Kenta will only admit it on his own terms." Mom sent me a cheeky grin and a wink. I pretended to be offended, huffing and turning my head away.

"My only regret is Inoko not being here to see this, but I know he's smiling down on us from the Pure Lands. He was the crier between us, you know? He'd be sobbing harder than you. This isn't a decision that needs to be made right away. Take all the time you need, and remember even if you decline, you will ALWAYS be a part of this family."

Naruto furiously attempted to finally rein in his tears. He scrubbed furiously at his eyes and was shaking his head vigorously. "No, no I don't need time. Yes, I want to be a part of this family, in writing. I-I… This is the greatest, best gift in the entire world. I love this family. I don't care that its ten years later than you wanted. I wouldn't care if it was one hundred. I want to sign the paperwork. I want to be your son." And with that the sobs continued.

Kono jumped out of her seat and crashed into Naruto. Her tears of happiness joined in the chaos of the blubbering mess that was Naruto and Mom. Ami smiled warmly at the scene before her, her tears were much more refined and ladylike, even if there was a bit of snot leaking out her nose.

Fú turned to me, even crying, she was beautiful.

"I'm so happy for Naruto." She whispered, a sad smile sliding into place.

I absentmindedly played with the fat rock that was on her left hand.

"You know, when we say, "I do," Naruto will now be your official brother. Kono will be your sister. Mom will be your mom. He isn't the only that's joining this family." I whispered into her ear.

Fú's tears halted and her eyes flew as wide as they could possibly go. She turned completely around; confusion written on her face. I smiled.

"What's that look for? Did you forget when you marry a man, you're marrying the entire family with him?" I said in a normal voice, a smile in place.

A wounded animal suddenly cried out in distress.

"Fú! Kenta is right! Someday soon you and I will be brother and sister too! We're both going to have a family!" Naruto, the wounded and distressed animal, cried out.

A wide smile broke out across Fú's flabbergasted face. A smile that I would never grow tired of.

"I… It didn't even occur to me that…" Her eyes met my mothers who was smiling warmly at her.

"I always wanted another daughter. I'm going to get the best daughter in the world." Mom said proudly.

The waterworks continued. For minutes the mood in the room was elated. Naruto was finally under control and was now cheering excitedly and making a list of all the people he had to tell.

Ami and Fú had somehow started talking wedding planning. Shocker.

Kono and Mom were entertaining Naruto, helping him with his list.

I was off in my own little world. Bits and pieces of the conversation kept nagging at me. I had this feeling that I was missing something. Something important.

"I'm so excited, Big Bro Naruto! Now you're going to be my actual Big Bro!" Kono cheered excitedly.

Big Bro. Older Brother. My eyes widened in shock. A memory I had pushed to the side and buried deep. Anything relating to my father's death was enough to set me off.

"Ask… Your mother… about… your brother."

"Older. Brother. Protected. You. Save. Him."

I cleared my throat, grabbing Fú's tiny hand in my own. A physical object to ground myself. Fú's warmth drove away the darkness.

"Mom, tell me about my brother." I stated loudly. The room went silent. Mom's chakra spiked. Panic.

"Iroko? He's asleep. You know he loves his naps." Mom replied smoothly. I narrowed my eyes slightly.

"Not Iroko, my older brother."

Shock. Terror. Resignation.

"Your father told you then?" Mom asked in a quiet voice. She glanced at Kono, quickly realizing the cat was out of the bag.

"Yes. Just before… His last words were to tell you he loved you and that he was sorry. But right before that, he told me to ask about my older brother. He said he protected me. He saved me?" Fú's hand had tightened around my own to the point where I was beginning to lose feeling. I gently loosened her grip. She shot me a sheepish look but didn't let go all of the way.

Mom sighed in resignation.

"Damn that Inoko. Making my life difficult even when he's no longer with us." Mom grouched, but no heat or meaning were behind her words.

"Do you remember the Hyuga incident?" Mom asked.

I nodded. It's one of my earliest memories.

"Shortly after that, Lord Third passed a very strange law. We now know that members of his own council, namely a certain man, were coercing and manipulating Lord Hiruzen. The bill stated that due to increasing suspicious activity of foreign nations, he was re-establishing Root. A sub-division of ANBU. They were a highly frowned up organization. They were the ones who took the Shadow Missions. They were highly skilled at infiltration, espionage, the works. Danzo Shimura was the commander of these Shadow Forces, and his training methods were, in laments terms, barbaric and cruel. He didn't train and raise Shinobi. He created unfeeling tools that would strike where he pointed. They held absolute loyalty to Danzo and Danzo only, not the Hokage."

"With the "re-establishment" of Root, each noble clan was required to give up four promising clan members. The minor clans had to give up two. These kids were then taken away, never to see their family again. They were broken and turned into emotionless slaves. Your name was at the top of the Yamanaka Clan, dear." Mom said in a no-nonsense voice. That declaration shook me to my core.

"Me? Why? I wasn't even four years old at the time." I asked, dumbfounded.

"Danzo believed you had some sort of new bloodline. Able to predict the future. He wanted that ability for himself. He came for you, and by law, we were obligated to hand you over. Just as you were being ripped away from my grasping hands, Danzo froze. He then let go of you, and you clung to me like a newborn monkey. Seconds later, he seemed to overcome whatever trance he was in."

"Your elder brother, who was only six at the time, had proven firsthand his potential. He successfully used the Mind-Body Transfer on Danzo. A man who at one point was said to rival Lord Third in strength. He then began to plead. Asking Danzo to take him instead. He a was prodigy. Just like you. Just like Ino. Just like Kono. The blood runs strong in the newest generation. Danzo was impressed, he accepted. That was the last time I ever saw your brother." Mom's voice and chakra were dripped with guilt and sorrow.

"What was his name? Why don't I remember?" I asked, mind still running in circles trying to make sense of everything.

"You don't remember, because we blocked your memories of your brother. You were too smart. Too inquisitive. You would ask questions. As you know, the wrong questions reaching the wrong people is not a good thing in the Shinobi world." My said.

White hot anger licked at my core, but I shoved it aside. Mom and Dad only did anything to protect us. I was three, almost four at the time. They were correct to do so.

"Can we… can we unblock those memories sometimes? I… would like to have at least a few memories." I asked hesitantly.

Mom smiled warmly. "Of course, dear. We'll schedule an appointment with Inoichi soon."

I nodded, pleased at Mom's response. Even if the memories were fuzzy, some were better than none.

"Is he dead? Was he one of those sleeper agents killed all those years ago?"

Mom shook her head. "Your father gained clearance to review all the scrolls. Our eldest was not one of the ones killed that day. He escaped with Danzo. Somewhere they're all out there. Alive. I keep my ear open. Whispers of Danzo have been growing more prevalent. Something big is coming."

"So that's why dad said to save him." I mused out loud.

Mom's chakra wavered, hope and acceptance were warring with another.

"Kenta, sweetie. Can I be selfish for once in my life with you?" Mom asked quietly. I met her unsure gaze with my own gaze full of fiery determination.

"I'll do it. I'll save him. Whatever it takes, no matter what kind of brainwashing Danzo used on him. Our family will be whole once more. For you, and for dad. I promised him already." I stated boldly.

Mom smiled. "Thank you, hon. I… I would like to see him once more. He was such a happy boy. He loved you, possibly more than you love Kono. When you were born, he proudly declared he would always protect you. He had to fulfill that duty much too soon, but he didn't break his promise."

"Don't worry mom, we'll get him back. I don't know how long it will take, but I'll do it." I stated again. "Mom, you never answered my other question."

"What was that, hon?"

"Our eldest brother, what is his name?"

Mom paused for several moments. Her eyes wandered towards Fú momentarily before her gaze locked once again with mine.

"My first-born child. Your elder brother. His name is Fuu Yamanaka."

Ok, before the torches and pitchforks are brought out once again, let me explain some things.

No, Kenta will not be destroying souls left and right. As he stated, Hidan's mental defense consisted only of his religious fervor. While it was a good protective barrier from outside invasion, inside his own mind it was basically as sturdy as water at room temperature.

If Kenta tried this technique on anyone else. Anyone with a halfway decent mental defense, Kenta would be in serious trouble. He transports his PURE spirit into his target. Inside the OPPONENTS mindscape, he is VERY vulnerable. Remember, this was a technique designed to HELP people and it was weaponized as their enemies grew in numbers.

If Kenta had to battle someone inside their own mindscape and was defeated, he would wind up a drooling vegetable in their stead. This is NOT an end all, be all technique! VERY situational, especially with the MONSTERS that Team Akatsuki Extermination will be facing in the near future.

Ok with that out of the way, who guessed it would be Fuu? (Yes, I know it's spelled the same as Fú-Bae, but to avoid confusion, we're changing it slightly).

Who guessed Fuu would be connected to Kenta somehow well before this chapter?!

Yes, this was a VERY dramatic/emotional/character building/ANGST filled chapter. I'm sorry if you didn't like it, but Kenta had to be shown as HUMAN. He isn't a transmigrant. He isn't destined to save the world. He's a strong Shinobi who's been shown to be near perfect and infallible up until these last two chapters. Kenta is HUMAN and we had to show his weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

Did you like it? Was it too much? Did you cry as much as I did writing this chapter? What happens if Kenta loses someone else he loves? Will he finally make that irreversible plunge into the darkness? Or will he look back on this incident and grow and mature? Guess we'll all find out cuz EVEN I DON'T KNOW! MWAHAHAHA.

Thanks once again for all your love and support. It means the world to me! All my guest readers, make those accounts, before you review! I love talking to my readers in real-time. I hate having to reply to you potentially days later in these A/Ns! Speaking of replies. Here's a few :D

Kiki :D – Thank you for the tips. They're very much appreciated. I feel there are SO many rules when it comes to numerical vs typing out a numbers. I was always led to believe 1-10 is written, anything higher, a numerical value would be acceptable. I tried using a few of those tips this scene, hopefully they made a difference. Trust me, the only way I take criticism negatively is if it's purposefully written negatively.

I'm SO happy to hear you're enjoying my story! I'm trying so hard to create this AU/Canon mashup of perfect harmony. The biggest compliment is that my OCs are coming across as real people, and not conflicting with the storyline. That means the world to me, so thank you. And Top 5? Hell yes! With 430k and counting fics on this sight, that is HUGE! I will try not to let you down! Hopefully this chapter didn't dissuade you!