I'M NARUTO UZUMAKI

Chapter 32: CHAPTER 32



Sasuke's Father and Mother

Shisui, trailing behind the Third Hokage, realized that his steps were quicker than the Hokage's. To avoid raising suspicions or alarming the Anbu, Shisui adjusted his pace, aligning himself with the formation of the Anbu squad. He remained calm, ensuring no actions could be interpreted as hostile, as he knew any misstep could escalate tensions.

Not long after, the Third Hokage, Shisui, and their contingent reached the outskirts of the Uchiha clan's district. In a concealed alley nearby, Moonlight Hayate and Uzuki Yugao, who had been tasked with monitoring Naruto, waited anxiously. Both were aware of the critical nature of their mission. If anything were to happen to the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki in the Uchiha clan, they would bear significant responsibility, potentially jeopardizing their careers and chances for advancement.

Hayate, growing impatient, muttered, "Naruto's usually a loner who doesn't wander far. What's gotten into him today, running off to the Uchiha district? I bet someone put him up to this. He's causing trouble."

Unbeknownst to Hayate, the Third Hokage had already arrived and overheard his remarks. The Hokage's expression grew thoughtful. As Naruto's guardian, he knew better than anyone that Naruto's actions often reflected his own teachings.

Yugao, noticing the Hokage, nudged Hayate discreetly. Hayate turned and immediately saluted, quickly explaining the situation. "Lord Hokage, you've arrived. I was just about to report that Naruto entered the Uchiha district with Sasuke. It appears to be a simple visit between two children."

After listening to their report, the Third Hokage's tense expression softened. It seemed the situation was less dire than he had initially feared. Naruto had accepted Sasuke's invitation, which was likely a result of his own encouragement for Naruto to forge friendships.

However, the Hokage remained cautious. With a wave of his hand, more than twenty Anbu ninjas appeared, ready for orders. Observing their arrival, the Hokage weighed his options. He considered entering the Uchiha district to retrieve Naruto but dismissed the idea. Such an act could unnecessarily provoke the Uchiha and escalate tensions.

Instead, he decided to use this opportunity to gauge Fugaku Uchiha's disposition. Allowing Naruto to visit Sasuke could serve as a subtle way to foster communication between the village and the Uchiha clan. The Hokage, regretting not preparing Naruto with specific questions in advance, signaled his subordinates to stand down. Turning to Shisui, he said with a smile, "Let the children handle their matters. There's no need for us to intervene."

Shisui, relieved, nodded and wiped the sweat from his brow.

Inside the Uchiha district, Naruto and Sasuke were beginning to draw attention. Members of the Uchiha clan noticed the presence of Naruto, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, and exchanged skeptical glances. Among the onlookers were Uchiha Jonin, who frowned in concern. They knew Naruto's true identity as the vessel of the Nine-Tails and pondered whether this could be part of a larger plan by their patriarch, Fugaku. After all, controlling the Nine-Tails would grant the clan an unparalleled advantage.

Naruto, unfazed by the scrutiny, chatted internally with Kurama. The Nine-Tails grumbled, "Naruto, what is this place? Why are there Sharingan eyes everywhere? It's irritating."

Naruto chuckled and replied, "This is the Uchiha clan's territory. Of course, there are Sharingan everywhere."

Kurama snorted. "Ordinary Sharingan can't control me, but their presence is nauseating. It's like eating in a filthy restroom."

Naruto ignored the odd metaphor and reassured Kurama, "You're right. Sharingan can't control us. Besides, if they try anything, you can help break any genjutsu."

Kurama grumbled in annoyance. "Fine, fine, but don't boss me around too much, kid."

Meanwhile, Sasuke led Naruto to his home, a large, elegant estate far grander than Naruto's modest apartment. The yard featured landscaped gardens, artificial streams, and even a pavilion for relaxing. As they entered, Sasuke called out, "I'm back!"

Naruto's eyes lit up as he saw Sasuke's parents. Fugaku, Sasuke's father, had a stern and commanding presence, fitting for the leader of the Uchiha clan and head of the Konoha Military Police Force. Mikoto, Sasuke's mother, radiated warmth and kindness, a stark contrast to her husband.

Mikoto greeted them with a gentle smile. "You must be Naruto, Sasuke's friend from the academy. Welcome! I've heard so much about you."

Sasuke blushed and muttered, "Mom, don't embarrass me. I didn't talk about him that much."

Naruto, unfazed, grinned and replied, "Sasuke talks about you and Mr. Fugaku all the time. He says you're the best parents in the world."

Sasuke turned beet red, stammering, "I-I never said that!"

Mikoto laughed softly, while Fugaku observed Naruto with a calculating gaze, curious about the boy who carried the Nine-Tails within him. For a brief moment, Fugaku's eyes flickered with the Sharingan before he turned to Sasuke, speaking in his usual authoritative tone, "You've brought an interesting guest, Sasuke. Be sure to treat him well."

Naruto's visit had only just begun, but it was clear the dynamics between the Uchiha clan and Konoha's leadership were shifting in subtle, profound ways.


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