Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

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Crows

The crows above him cried out, wings flapping frantically in the icy wind. They circled him, mocking him.

Because he was losing his mind.

Turning insane was the only possible explanation. Years ago, Sasuke had already been on the edge of insanity but assumed his atonement had changed him. Now, with his head pulsing, he couldn't entertain that thought any longer. Maybe sleep was all he needed?

Cursing under his breath, he made his way through the misty woods.

The visions must have started an hour ago. As he crossed the mostly unoccupied land, the feeling of being watched never disappeared.

Large birds flew above his head, their pitch-black wings whipping the air. Crows… The memory of Shisui and Itachi laughing together sent a shiver down his spine.

That was when Sasuke spotted them again. Red eyes with those specific geometric patterns. The Sharingan. It was absurd. Madara and Obito had died; Kakashi had lost his Sharingan. Sasuke was the only one left.

Familiar blood-red eyes now glimmered between the trees. Apparently, his past now haunted him not only in his dreams but in the light of day. Quiet whispers echoed around him, footsteps shuffling through the soaked leaves. Sasuke pressed his teeth together and stopped abruptly. The rational part of his brain became louder again.

"Enough," Sasuke growled, quickly drawing his katana. He knew he would need to fight his mind by reminding himself that those visions weren't real.

Another wave of sudden exhaustion washed over him. That couldn't be all part of his mind. No, he was being attacked. Ready to fight, he jumped towards the visions.

"No. Wait! Please." The firm softness of the female voice made him pause. Has he ever heard that voice before? "A fight is unnecessary."

His completed Susanoo armor crumpled at some places, indicating that his chakra might not suffice to keep it intact. Attack or not? A decision was needed.

"Show yourself!" he shouted.

The leaves rustled, and a short woman with long dark hair jumped out. Bulging veins framed her large light eyes—unmistakably a Hyuga. She wasn't in the usual Hyuga fighting stance. Instead, her hands reached out in a soothing way as if she was approaching an animal. A crow gracefully descended from the trees before it landed on her shoulder. Another hallucination?

Sasuke finally recognized that bluish tone of hair—the Hyuga girl from his class. "Hinata Hyuga?"

"My sincere apologies, Sasuke." Pressing her hands together, her lips trembled as she lowered her head. "I claim full responsibility for everything. But now I'm afraid you need to come with me, so our healer can help you with the poison."

Poison. It made sense. His scowl grew while his Susanoo still wavered. Sasuke contemplated lashing out and killing her just to make sure she wouldn't attack him first. She had already confessed that the poison was her fault. But her apology caught him off guard. Should he grant her forgiveness? His atonement made him reassess.

"Sasuke… let me help you."

"Why would I trust you?" he hissed, feeling like a dragon with a thorn in his toe. Although they came from the same village, how could he trust anyone here in the woods, far away from home? Even though the Sharingan would detect a Genjutsu, the fact that he felt worse with every second made him cautious.

There was a short silence before Hinata said quietly, "Have my clan wronged you before?"

Sasuke paused. Indeed, he had no feud with the Hyuga and now that he had been poisoned, he didn't have many other options. Usually nothing would strike him down so easily since he was familiar with poisons from his training with Orochimaru. So how? How could anyone manage to poison him?

"Our healer will help you," Hinata said, taking another slow step towards him. The crow from her shoulder rose in the air as soon as she was close. With an encouraging nod, she stretched out her hand, almost touching his chakra armor. "It's the mist."

"The mist?" Sasuke's nose scrunched up. His Susanoo dissolved and he leaned forward to cough. Everything around him started to turn. Before his body could slump to the ground, he felt her catching him.

"I… I'll explain later. Come. Let me assist you." Hinata stabilized him by putting her shoulder under his arm.

To his own surprise, he didn't protest as her cold body pressed against his—he was exhausted. Strands of her silky hair tickled his nose, a smell almost too clean and fresh for a nin.

Hinata started to jump from tree to tree, leading him along. With every breath he took, his treacherous lungs burned like fire.

"Where… are we going?" he pressed out.

"To my compound."

Her compound? How? They had no time to go to Konoha. He'd be dead by then. "Not… Konoha," he mumbled.

"Um… right," she whispered, warm breath stroking against his neck. "Try to rest, we're almost there."

Everything around him turned dark gradually. He held onto her shoulder and felt her pulling him closer into a strangely comforting closeness until he was on her back. At that moment, he couldn't care less anymore.

"We need to be quick," Hinata whispered in another direction, but Sasuke still heard it. Who is she talking to?

Suddenly, a different voice came from behind them. It sounded like a child. "Hinata-sensei… I-I'm sorry, it's–"

"I know, Genji. Everything is going to be all right. I know Sasuke from school. He's strong enough, you know. So let's talk about this later. He'll understand."

Understand what? Sasuke fought against blacking out completely. What did the boy do?

"But… he has the Sharingan and I saw the armor! He can't be good." There was a little pause as if the next question would be too difficult to ask. "Did he come… for us?"

At the lack of a reply, Sasuke tried to turn his head to see where this little voice came from, but his eyelids had become concrete, obstructing his sight.

A gulp was audible. Then the boy spoke again, "To kill us?"

"No. Don't be afraid," Hinata said, voice resolute. "No matter what happens, I will protect you."

"And… And I'll protect you, sensei."

Protect them… from me–why? The darkness around Sasuke enclosed everything.

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Aching pressure in his head woke him up. The wooden ceiling above him appeared new somehow but didn't remind him of the village he grew up in. Was this really Konoha? It had been some time since he had been there. He sat up in bed.

A bitter taste coated his tongue. From his training with Orochimaru, Sasuke knew it was the poison's aftermath. Hinata didn't lie about him being poisoned. The last words echoed in his head. What was she talking about?

The door creaked quietly as a man with brown hair and Hyuga eyes entered the room.

"Welcome back," the man said. "I'm Ko Hyuga. We waited for you to wake up. It appears that the level of poison was greater than we assumed."

Yes, Sasuke could attest to that. Scanning his surroundings for cues on his current location, he searched for an easy way out. There were no guards aside from Ko and it didn't seem like he wanted to fight him. "Where am I?"

"In the hospital ward of the Hyuga compound."

"The Hyuga compound? How could we reach Konoha that fast?"

A self-righteous smirk flashed on Ko's lips. "You seem not to be up-to-date."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow. After being away from the village for some years, the only news reaching him came from his teammates. Those letters never mentioned the Hyuga clan. Not that he cared but now he wished he had been paying more attention.

"We're not in Konoha," Ko said. "This is the Hyuga compound in the Land of Grass. We've been living here for four years."

Sasuke swallowed. He had no idea, perhaps he should have visited his home village more often. "The Hyuga… left Konoha?"

"No. A small part decided to leave and establish a new branch of the clan. The rest stayed behind. Konoha has an agreement and partnership with our clan."

Well, that was new. "The clan was split? Why?"

"This… might be something you might want to discuss with our clan head. I've said enough." Throwing him a stony glare, Ko folded his arms in front of his chest. "Allow me one question. If you don't know anything about us, why were you here? What was your objective?"

"I don't see how that would concern you. I'm taking my leave." Sasuke swung his legs out of the bed, only to be met with another wave of headache. Teleporting was out of the question but he could still summon somebody and go.

"Stay," Ko said. "For the sake of peace between our villages, you're obligated to at least report to our head once before leaving."

Freezing in his tracks, Sasuke clenched his jaw. Acting rashly and irrational is unnecessary. He didn't fancy a war, so he decided to quickly talk to the leader and go. "So who's the head of your strange clan here?"

"I am," a soft voice interfered firmly and his head snapped to see Hinata in the doorway. "Welcome back, Sasuke. I'm glad you're awake."

"You're the head?" Sasuke repeated.

"Got a problem with that?" Ko snapped, his body tensing up and hand shooting towards the kunai at his leg. "Show some respect."

"It's all right, Ko." Hinata shook her head slightly and he instantly halted but continued to glare at Sasuke.

Sasuke watched her carefully. With her still wearing that simple, black mission gear, he wouldn't have guessed that she would be the one in charge of this clan.

"Where's my sword?" A scowl formed on his face. "Am I your prisoner now, Hyuga?"

"No. Of course, not." Hinata's lips tightened, her finger pointing at the closet in the other corner of the room. "Your belongings are in there. You're free to leave whenever you want. However…" She walked to the window so he could only see the curve of her nose and her long dark hair. "Right now I wouldn't recommend it. The poison's still affecting your chakra system and only a Hyuga healer can help you with the right dosage of your medication."

"It's not of your concern." Sasuke discarded the offer with a dismissive wave of his hand. "I don't need your help… or his."

"Ko," Hinata said without withdrawing her glance from the window. "Thank you for your help. I'll handle the situation from here on."

"But Lady Hinata–" Ko went silent as soon as Hinata gave him a little look. "All right. If anything comes up, you know where to find me."

"Of course. Thank you, Ko." Hinata waited until they were alone in the room. "Sasuke. You must have… questions, I assume?"

He did. But right now he wasn't sure what had been a hallucination and what reality. And he wasn't eager to show her more vulnerabilities. It was enough that he had allowed her to carry him to some hospital. "How did you poison me and why?"

There was a short silence before she drew back her shoulders. "It wasn't me."

"Who was it then?"

"One of our young Genin. His team and he were out in the woods and saw you… and got scared. All in all, it was my responsibility and I apologize for what happened." She dipped her head.

"How did they manage to do that?" Sasuke asked.

"Oh, well… as I said, it was the mist." Hinata sat down on the chair next to his bed. "I suggest we could talk over dinner—"

"Doesn't matter anyway. I'm taking my leave. Sasuke stood up so abruptly that everything started to turn. Cursing internally, he sank down on one knee.

Careful steps came closer before Hinata reached her hands out like he was a wild animal. "I'll help you." Her fingers grasped his arm, pulling him up.

"Don't—" The harsh words got stuck in his throat. The touch was so gentle. There was something comforting and warm in it.

Hinata peeked from under her bangs when he finally managed to keep his balance. "Are you sure that—"

"I am," Sasuke grumbled.

"Hmm… okay." After she let go of him, she headed to the closet and pulled out his dirty cloak. "We contemplated cleaning it but, well… didn't know when you'd wake up."

Reaching for his sword, Sasuke shook his head. "Not necessary." To put on his cloak without losing his balance proved more difficult than expected, but he had to leave. Staying here in this condition made no sense and he trusted nobody.

An odd look of concern settled on Hinata's face. "Do you really think you're okay?" She paused when he frowned. "Umm. Sure. Follow me, then."

She led the way out of the hospital.

"Where are we exactly?" Sasuke asked. It would be easier for him to know the way to Konoha. The poison still affected him greatly and perhaps he really needed a short break from his travels.

"Right now, we're in the eastern part of the Land of Grass."

Not that far away from Konoha. They walked across the compound, a larger complex with several houses and training grounds. The way to the gates of the compound proved to be longer than he had expected so he asked, "How many are you?"

Her pace increased as if she couldn't wait for him to leave now. "This clan is home to thirty two people–at the moment."

"All Hyuga?" Sasuke asked, huffing as he tried to keep up with her.

She took a bit longer to answer. "No, not everybody. Some members decided to join for protection… or education. People from neighboring regions. A couple of elder Hyuga went along as well as some Hyuga who haven't awakened the Byakugan. Most of the Hyuga who joined were too old for our clan to survive in the first place… That's why this clan is open to anyone. Luckily, some members had children, although unexpected. Every child means one more possibility for the future."

Taken aback by this, Sasuke stopped. The cold wind gusted through the trees and houses before smashing against them, a hint of snow falling down on their heads.

"Old members—If your clan can't grow and could die out," Sasuke said, "why split in the first place?"

Reaching out her hand, Hinata caught a snowflake. Her full lips tightened as she closed her palm. "To prevent a revolution from within."

Sasuke remembered that system the Hyuga clan implemented. The main branch could control the side branch with a specific seal. Of course, this slavery would ignite conflict in the long run. "They feared a possible coup against the main branch?"

She nodded. "Some branch members weren't… content. They had the possibility to leave on their own or join this clan."

"Which makes this clan to be the clan of losers." Sasuke swallowed when he saw the frown on her face. The idea of adopting people from outside into the clan appeared reasonable. However, a base consisting of frustrated Hyuga members didn't sound promising.

"Not at all," Hinata said. "They just felt like they couldn't speak their mind, afraid of the consequences arising from the power of the cage bird seal. This clan is different from the clan you know from Konoha."

"How so?"

"First, we abolished that seal."

"How do you protect the Byakugan then?"

"Like the Uchiha did," she said quietly.

Like the Uchiha…?

"Second, we decided on a system to elect the clan head."

Sasuke stared at her. The clan had voted for her? In school, she was the quietest girl in his class. She appeared meek and shy, although he had once heard that she had scored well on the written exams. Still she was so different from Hiashi Hyuga who appeared cold and calculating. And the Uchiha lead...? Sasuke sighed. His father had been authoritative and strong. In the end, Itachi would have been the head the Uchiha needed—calm, clever, and an excellent fighter. But it had never come to that.

"A number of peace treaties and diplomatic contracts make this clan a promising place even if it is relatively young," Hinata said, interrupting his thoughts on the Uchiha clan. The way she talked seemed controlled and well-thought-out–like a Hyuga but there was a certain gentleness that wasn't fitting.

Sasuke let his glance wander. "Why did you leave with them? Why not stay in Konoha and become the regular head? You were the heiress after all."

"My father nominated my little sister years ago," Hinata said. "And to be honest … the idea of actually leading a clan wasn't something I expected to do in any future or universe. I never wanted it." She laughed quietly and somehow he felt a little bit warmer in his chest. Different to all the corrupt idiots in her place, it appeared that she hadn't asked for the position. That was something new. Her fingers clasped together. "But I always dreamed of helping my brother."

"Your brother?" Sasuke pressed out.

"Neji wanted to change our clan and the caged bird seal. After his death, I saw it as my way to value his sacrifice. I'm leading the clan with him in mind."

Sasuke couldn't help but nod slightly. After the Uchiha clan massacre, he had dreamed of restoring it one day. But after Itachi's death, he didn't even know how.

They had just crossed a beautiful garden, and Sasuke already felt like collapsing again. Something inside his ears tingled. He felt watched by red eyes far away in the distance, the hallucinations appearing again. That damn poison was stronger than he had expected.

Hinata walked next to him, giving him a side look he couldn't quite interpret. Passer-bys smiled and bowed respectfully to greet her. The amount of politeness and friendliness she reciprocated appeared so unusual. However, all the people seemed fine with Hinata, the head of that newly formed clan.

"I'm sorry," she told him after a group of elders had trapped her in a conversation about medical supplies. "I didn't expect you to wait for me. I thought you wanted to leave as soon as possible."

"We weren't done with our conversation." He offered a half-shrug. The truth was he couldn't help but stare as she handled the clan business. It was a different picture from what he knew from the other leaders he had observed. Completely different. "Those people seem to need you."

"They need me like I need them," Hinata said.

What's a true leader?

Crows flew above their head and he remembered the bird on her shoulder earlier in the woods.

"The crows—are your summons?" Sasuke asked.

With a little smile, Hinata's hand darted towards the sky. One bird landed on her forearm. "They are."

Anger and confusion stirred in his gut. Most Uchiha had cats and Shisui was the exception. His crows were special. So how did that Hyuga woman get her hands on Shisui's summons? "How?"

"Excuse me?"

"How did you manage to get the contract in the first place?"

"Oh, that's an odd story." Hinata's hair swayed in a sudden breeze of wind and she held the bird closer to her body, shielding it from the cold. Long fingers softly stroked through the black feathers while the crow made a low approving noise. "It was back in Konoha, a year after the war. I walked back home after training with Shino and Kiba and found an injured crow on the way… I took care of it for a few days. I hid it in my room, scared my father would find it." She petted the bird, who cawed. "And when I set it free, it came back with the contract in its claws."

As Sasuke watched her and the bird, something struck him. Shisui had never told the story of how he had gotten his contract but it wasn't uncommon for summons to test for character. Shisui must have passed the test easily.

"Shisui Uchiha," Hinata whispered so carefully he almost didn't hear it.

Sasuke's mouth opened. Could she read his thoughts?

"That was the last name on the contract." Hinata bit her lower lip. "Did you know him?"

Sasuke nodded, his throat suddenly drier.

"He must have been kind," she whispered and his head snapped to look at her. Those empty platitudes. "The crows… they still mourn him."

The realization hit him that she must be one of the few people who would even remember Shisui's name. Suddenly, his anger evaporated. Maybe Hinata caring for the crows wasn't the worst thing. They seemed content. Shisui would have liked that.

Slowly, Sasuke's hand intuitively reached for the crow and its soft feathers. For a second, his fingers touched Hinata's. Warm met cold and the bird coed.

"Uh. Sorry." Hinata quickly pulled away her hand.

Sasuke shrugged, turning away and scanning the compound once more. It was bigger than expected.

Finally, they had reached the gates. In front of the training grounds, a bunch of children were exercising.

Hinata looked around quickly, her face tense and hard. "Take care, Sasuke. I hope you'll get better soon."

Somehow it stung how quickly she now wanted to get rid of him. First, it seemed like she wanted something from him but now she didn't care at all. In the end, her students had poisoned him! Maybe he should stay and let her medics heal him, so he could continue his travels?

After releasing a sigh, Hinata turned to Sasuke. "You should know I value honesty. I wasn't sure if I wanted you to meet him. I don't know how much you know about it… But now…" She swallowed, her fists tightening. "We decided to keep it a secret until, well—"

A hint of red flashed in the distance. Those visual impairments again. Poison–again?

Sasuke sank down on his knees. Red eyes… Again. His pulsing lungs seemed to draw air again.

"Sasuke…" He felt Hinata's hand around his arm, her voice soft in his ear. "The poison is still affecting you. I'll bring you back to the hospital. Come." She quickly picked him up in her arms.

Darkness enclosed him.

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When he woke up, he found himself in the hospital room again. Holding some scrolls, Hinata sat next to his bed, deep in thought.

Those subtle dark circles under her eyes and the pale but flawless skin were only visible from up close. Her full rose lips pursed in concentration while her fingers fixed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. Again, Sasuke wondered how she had managed to come this far. Winning the election of the Hyuga branch, ruling over those who had hated the main branch, being in charge of over thirty people… The Hyuga weren't known to be inclined to outer appearance or superficialness. They valued power and strength.

What's her secret? He had to find out. But aggression hadn't helped him, so he decided to act smarter this time.

"You're awake." Hinata's attention quickly shifted from the scrolls to him and his ears warmed at the realization that she caught him staring.

"What happened?" he asked.

"It appears that you have a tendency to faint…" The corner of her lips curled up slightly. She reached for the tray on the nightstand and placed it on his lap. "You don't seem to eat enough, I speak from personal experience. Carrying you wasn't difficult at all."

"You didn't have to," he mumbled and picked up an onigiri from the tray and turned it in his hand. "I don't need any help."

"It's the least I could do after my student poisoned you." A small chuckle was audible but stopped when he frowned a bit. "Uh. Sorry."

Strange. She must be the strangest clan head he'd ever met. Calm and controlled but at the same time, gentle….

Hinata pulled out a bento out of her bag with the same onigiri and salad Sasuke had on his tray. "Usually, diplomatic visits entail dinner. Be our guest until you get better."

"I'm not a diplomat." Sasuke tsk-ed and for some reason, she smiled a bit brighter. It was a pretty smile that she surely used for situations like that. He couldn't even blame her. It almost worked.

"I assumed you'd come on Konoha's request?" Hinata asked as she took a sip out of her cup, not withdrawing her glance from him. It was one of the best-hidden interrogations he had been to, especially because her face appeared so innocent, showing not a hint of malice behind those pitch-dark lashes. Without a doubt, she was dangerous.

He had to be careful around her. "I didn't plan to come here."

"I see. Visitors from Konoha are always welcome here." Hinata leaned back and took a bite of the onigiri. "Oh, it's delicious. Tastes even better than last time. My student is practicing his cooking skills. He made these."

"Another poisoning attempt?" He wrinkled his nose, sniffing a bit.

She chuckled quietly. "Wouldn't that be… too easy?"

Smirking slightly, Sasuke bit into the morsel, savoring the first bit of food he had in days. "How can you manage to have students at all? Shouldn't you be drowning in work like Kakashi?"

"Since this clan is significantly smaller than Konoha, I think it's a different level." She rubbed her chin. "But also… I wanted to make time for training. It's necessary to not lose sight of the important things. The protection of my clan is the most important task I have. And besides the strategic questions, I think the best way is to stay in touch with the next generation."

"Don't you have a second man in command?"

"I do. Ko helps wherever he can."

"Is he your husband?" As soon as that question left his mouth, Sasuke wondered what had come over him to ask at all. It wasn't like him to be curious. But then again, he had to acquire all the information he could get.

With a laugh, Hinata shook her head. "No, no. He has protected me since I was a little girl. We have a council as well, but many tasks are only my responsibility."

Sasuke thought of Kakashi and how tired he looked since he had become Hokage.

"So… Are you on a mission right now?" Hinata asked as her chopsticks reached for the salad in her bento.

Sasuke hesitated. At first sight, her question appeared casual but he could see behind her curtain. She really was smarter than he had anticipated. He would need to be careful around her. "After the war, I asked for the opportunity to atone."

"Ah. I heard about it." Hinata halted to give him a longer look, making him feel stripped. With their Byakugan, the Hyuga could spot lies and while this wasn't one, she could clearly spot the attempt to change the subject without using her dojutsu. "Did your atonement… change you?"

"I guess." Sasuke shrugged. "I'm not the same person I was at seventeen."

"I can relate. And maybe it's better that way." Hinata laughed, filling more water into his cup. "It's been quite some time. We all changed, didn't we? We grew up. I remember how the other girls in class had a crush on you. They followed you everywhere."

He rolled his eyes at the annoying memory. There weren't many memories of his classmates but he kept one or two on anybody. "You used to stutter in class. You were shy."

"I had to learn to tackle that shyness," she said quietly.

Sasuke smirked at the almost invisible pink blush forming on her face. So she still did blush. The essence of a character couldn't vanish just like that. "Guessed so."

She smiled a bit wider. "And I remember how you were…. always fighting with Naruto back then."

"He still hasn't changed," Sasuke grumbled. "Still the loudest person I know." He fell silent as he noticed that he even enjoyed the conversation with her. It flowed easily.

"And I remember… how you announced that you wanted to restore your clan," Hinata said.

A strange heat spread in his ears.

She gasped, her cheeks flushed in a pinker color. "Oh! I-I didn't mean it that way, I'm sorry. I always thought you meant restoring your clan's honor and then reestablishing it as clan head. As for children, well, it's not necessary to have children on your own for a clan."

Sasuke cursed his own thoughts and the ability of the Hyuga to see through it. "I don't want to be head at all. The Uchiha clan suffered enough. It all ended in pain and hate."

Hinata's posture relaxed and she leaned forward, just a little bit. "I understand."

There was a comfortable silence as they continued to eat. Sasuke thought about the tasks of a clan head. He couldn't even imagine the first step. "I don't know how to stay–I mean really live in Konoha again. It's my home and it's not."

Hinata caught his glance. "I think I share that sentiment. Before I left… I felt out of place. Even if they are things I miss every day… my friends… my sister."

Sasuke thought of Itachi and Naruto's love for Konoha. He still couldn't grasp what it was about. How could they still believe in a village that mistreated them repeatedly? "No matter what, I'll cherish my brother's wish and will do whatever it takes to fight for it. It is what Itachi wanted. No matter how much that village wronged him."

Suddenly, Hinata's face hardened, and he wondered what made her upset. "And what do you want, Sasuke?" she asked.

Peace. A new start. But he couldn't articulate it so he just said, "Nothing."

"I see." The disappointment on her face was so subtle he almost didn't catch it.

Was it something I said? He cleared his throat to switch the subject but started to cough for some seconds. Still the aftermath of the poison?

"It won't happen again," Hinata said and when he raised a brow in confusion, she added, "the poison."

The poison might not be his biggest problem. Questioning his sanity, seeing red eyes around him, blacking out–this was unusual for him. This was the time to get to the source. "Before I blacked out… You were talking about honesty. What did you decide to keep secret?"

"Hmm, yes, I value honesty. But first… Well, trust and honesty is a two-edged sword." Her fingers clasped together as if she wasn't quite sure about him. Perhaps that had been her plan all along–to gain his trust and lure him to disclose his information.

Exactly what a clan leader would do.

Hinata stuffed her bento back into her bag before sitting up straight. "Sasuke… What were you searching for when you were crossing our land?"

That sudden directness made him scowl. "Classified. Since you don't seem to belong to a clan of Konoha anymore, I won't tell you anything."

Tilting her head, Hinata blinked. Her lips tightened but then turned into a tiny smile. "I hope you'll reassess. Konoha is our partner, so you can trust me—"

"This is what you want me to believe but I don't know you." When her smile wavered, an uncomfortable feeling of regret struck him. But it was too late to take it back so he added, "I'll talk to Kakashi to get his opinion on that. I'll be gone in the morning."

Hinata stood up and bowed slightly. "As you wish." Her quiet steps echoed in the corridor before fading away.

He screwed up. Negotiation didn't seem to be his strength. What would Naruto have done in this situation? Most likely, envelop her in a bear hug and invite her to ramen.

Releasing a sigh, Sasuke leaned against his cushion.

What's her secret?

Chapter Text

Moon

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A ray of moonlight fell into the room when Sasuke gained consciousness. A stinging pain in his chest spread through his body. He quickly sat up, activating his Sharingan. As he scanned the room for the source of his discomfort, his gaze snapped to the window.

Again, a pair of red eyes flashed in the darkness. A current ran through his arm, his Chidori ready.

Just as he was about to release the electricity, the door flew open. Hinata jumped in front of him, acting as a human barrier between him and the window. "No!"

Sasuke froze in his tracks as he realized that he was about to break the hospital's wall. All because of my hallucinations. The electricity dispersed.

"I'm going insane," he whispered.

"You're not." Hinata walked to the window and opened it. "Come out, Genji."

A boy, around eight years old, appeared in the window frame. His sickly pale skin and white hair contrasted the dark thin brows. When he lifted his head, two red Sharingan pupils flashed.

It hadn't been a hallucination.

Hinata helped the boy climb through the window. The icy wind gusted across the room, and a bunch of crows settled on the window seat. Hinata released a sigh. "Sasuke, this is Genji, one of Orochimaru's subjects who escaped the laboratory. We believe they are… clones."

As Sasuke's glance stuck at the little pale boy, his mouth felt drier like a desert, everything inside of him trembling. "Clones?"

"Yes. Clones with Uchiha genetics," Hinata said. "After finding Genji in the woods, my clan offered him to stay with us and—"

"You," Sasuke growled and took some steps towards her, stopping right in front of her. Their eyes locked as he leaned down. "You planned this." All this time, she knew but didn't say a damn word!

"Stay back!" Genji shouted, jumping forward and taking the Hyuga fighting stance. "Or I'll kill you! Just a little more poison, and you're—"

"Stop." Hinata side-stepped Genji and stood between them again. Her hand lay on the boy's arm. "Sasuke won't hurt us."

"B-But he… is evil!" Genji gritted his teeth, grimacing. "Look! He… is an Uchiha… like… Father."

Hinata shook her head slowly, softly patting the boy's arm. "He's not. I told you Sasuke helped to save the world. He won't harm us. Don't worry."

Sasuke swallowed, his chest contracting. He turned to Hinata, catching her glance. However, the Hyuga were said to be difficult to read. "Explain."

"I decided against informing Konoha when we found Genji three years ago," Hinata said. "I didn't want him to be left in the orphanage. He would be… used as a weapon and never feel the comfort of a family."

"A family?" Sasuke lifted an eyebrow. Of course, children without parents would be assigned to the orphanage until they could take care of themselves. Just like he and Naruto had. No normal family would adopt a ninja anyway, especially not some bloodthirsty clone from a lab. He couldn't imagine the boy having a family in this clan either. "Who's his family here?"

"Me." Her answer followed quickly as if there wasn't a single doubt about it. "He lives with me. I adopted him."

Sasuke's mouth almost dropped. "You adopted an Uchiha clone?"

Genji gritted his teeth at Sasuke, the tomoe in his Sharingan spinning slowly.

"I did," Hinata said without hesitation. "Genji's part of my family–of my clan. And I won't allow Konoha to use him as a weapon."

Sasuke scoffed. "The hypocrisy, Hyuga. You and I were trained to be nins. And now you train him to be a soldier just as Konoha would. You want to use his Kekkei Genkai."

"You're wrong. I'm training him to protect himself and his home. I want him to have a normal life."

Sasuke snorted before swaying his palm toward the boy. "A normal life? He attacked me out of nowhere."

"He was scared and… had his reasons," Hinata said. A small pout rose on her face. "He's a child. Full of fear and pain. You know–how we once were."

A child. Sasuke thought of his own teenage rashness. How often had he hurt his own friends because of his pain? "What do you want from me?"

"Don't inform Konoha—at least not right away."

Sasuke frowned."They will find out about it anyway."

Withstanding his glance, she knitted her eyebrows together. "They won't. They assume this clan is–as you said–for the outcasts of the Hyuga."

Hinata Hyuga was clever to turn it all around and use his own words against him. Why would he lie to Kakashi for her? "Why would I take part in this charade?"

"Because you saw what happened to the Uchiha clan," Hinata said. "I don't want that. I want Genji safe. That's why I decided to keep quiet about it."

The Uchiha—feared, discriminated, and discarded by Konoha. If they had left Konoha, would that have prevented everything? Sasuke ground his teeth, pointing his chin towards Genji. "Kakashi would argue that he is an Uchiha and belongs to Konoha."

"I'm… not sure Genji really is an Uchiha," she said. "Yes, he has the Sharingan. However, it appears that he and the other clones were genetically engineered. The root was an Uchiha but the clones were born in Orochimaru's lab. In any case, they need… a family. Not the orphanage and Kabuto… who might have known they were there–and did nothing to help them."

"You think there are more of them out there?" A shudder ran down his back, goosebumps remaining there.

"Yes. We are searching for them." Hinata stood so close that he felt her warm chakra vibrating. Her chest rose and fell with rapid breaths. Byakugan still activated, she appeared like she was ready to fight him to death if necessary. Even though she knew she would never be strong enough to win. "Sasuke, many children became orphans after the war. We were not allowed to adopt the children of Konoha into our clan. Instead, they gave them to the orphanage. Konoha wants them within their walls. But they will not care for him. He'll be on his own."

Sasuke scowled. Did she really expect him to feel pity for that strange kid?

The boy's Sharingan looked so familiar, little tears flashing at the corners of his lashes. He looked up at Hinata. "Sensei… we s-shouldn't…"

He's frightened. It reminded Sasuke of how scared he had been when he felt all alone. With no family and no place to call home. Just an empty apartment. Sasuke deactivated his Sharingan, and told Genji, "If I had wanted to kill you, I would have done it long ago."

Genji gulped, eyes wide as saucers.

"I know," Hinata said quietly, her irises flashing. "Just as his poison could have killed you."

I don't get it. Sasuke clenched his jaw. "Then why didn't you let it kill me? Keeping me alive is a risk for your secret."

There was a short silence before Hinata put her hand on top of her heart. "Naruto has always trusted you. He trusted in me too. Without this trust, I would have never come so far. I would have never changed."

Sasuke sighed internally. Indeed, Naruto's trust had saved him from death and from the darkness inside himself.

"When I saw you in the woods, you weren't looking for a fight. That's when I knew I might have to trust you too." The veins around Hinata's temples receded, and her hands clapped together. She bowed her head. "Please, Sasuke. I ask you to reconsider. Stay for some days–the poison was strong, and you're not fit to go."

The whole situation was insane. She expected him to keep silent about her adopting an Uchiha clone. Time. I need time to think it through. Sasuke let out a harsh breath. "Fine."

Hinata beamed with so much hope that his heart punched against his chest.

"Thank you," she mouthed.

"Don't. As you said, I'm considering it. I won't tell your secret–for now." When Hinata's smile didn't falter, Sasuke jerked his head towards Genji. "You. You were the brat that poisoned me?"

Genji exchanged a glance with Hinata. When she gave him a slight nod, he dipped his head. "Eh. Yeah…"

With a sigh, Sasuke sat down on the bed. "How did you do it?"

Genji shrugged, a proud little grin curling his lip. "I was always good with poisons. In the lab, we learned to… use it. The mist can be as strong as I want it to be."

"Boil's release is your affinity?" Sasuke asked.

"Mhm." The boy scratched his temple, shifting his weight from one foot to another.

"And you want to stay here? With the Hyuga?"

Genji nodded so hard his head might have fallen off. "I want to stay with Hinata-sensei. Don't want to go to… Konoha."

Sasuke sighed internally. He wouldn't want to end up in Kabuto's care either. Perhaps Hinata is the better option. "I want to test him."

Genji and Hinata stared at him, shoulders tense, eyes equally wide. They looked like mother and son for a second although they weren't related by blood.

Sasuke raked his fingers through his hair. "I want to assess his strength."

Silence filled the room before Hinata finally understood what he wanted to say. "Oh! Mmm. I think that might not be a bad idea." Her hand reached for Genji's shoulder. "Perhaps you two can talk about the Sharingan. The Byakugan is different and… well, we Hyuga don't know much about the Sharingan."

"If I have to," Genji mumbled, glance shifting to the side.

"Good," Sasuke said, scowling at the little boy. "Meet me after sunrise."

Before Genji could interfere, Hinata nodded firmly, pushing him gently towards the door. "Good night, Sasuke. Sleep will surely do you good."

After Genji and Hinata left his room, Sasuke groaned. What the hell had just happened that he agreed to stay and reconsider? How could he agree to become a traitor to Konoha just like that?

But her pleading eyes, that glimpse of hope glimmering inside them…

Reading her proved to be difficult. As a clan head, she surely aimed to expand it and gain power. For years, she had been hiding an Uchiha clone, a potential danger and weapon, under her roof. Nobody would do this if it wasn't for strength and power. Hinata wasn't that shy girl from school anymore. Only in a few years, she had acquired a clan and become the leader of the outcasts. Not only her kin but the crows and an Uchiha clone acted on her command.

Sasuke wouldn't let her blind him. He would observe the situation carefully to make a decision. Most likely that would mean handing out the clone to Konoha. Even if he would have to fight her and her clan for it.

Though, something inside him screamed in protest. Was power what she desired? If she had wanted power, she could have killed him with the poison. Instead, she had taken him with her to heal him. Why?

When Sasuke shut his eyes, the memory of her in the woods wouldn't leave him alone. Light eyes focused on him, long silky hair swaying in the wind as one crow had settled on her shoulder, ready for her commands.

Ready to be led.

Even though he didn't sleep much, his body felt lighter in the morning. Warm chakra pulsed fiercely through his veins as he dressed for the meeting. The sun appeared a bit brighter, even though the cold would stay for a while.

When he opened the door and stepped out of the hospital room, somebody bumped into his chest. A fresh scent filled his nose, moonlike eyes peering at him.

"Sorry." Hinata quickly took a step back. "Genji's home, waiting for us to pick him up. You've never been to my house so I thought I might eh… escort you there."

Why not just send the boy here? Sasuke nodded slightly, lifting his eyebrow at the pretty blush on her cheeks. Was it from them bumping into each other or from the cold outside?

Targeting side-glances at him, Hinata walked next to him, slower than usual. A crow circled in the air right above their heads. "I came because I wanted to talk to you, but didn't want to say it in front of Genji. The reason he poisoned you… he was scared of your Sharingan. The only adult with a Sharingan he knew abused him and his brothers. It was the root of the clones—Shin. We assume he used his clones as organ donors. They called him 'Father,' and I think that seeing you reignited Genji's trauma. Still, I hope that getting to know you might help him to… make peace with his past."

A cold shiver struck Sasuke, a frown growing on his forehead. How could somebody calling himself 'Father' do this to his children?

"I think Genji will like you," Hinata said. When he lifted a doubtful brow, she shook her head. "I mean it. He just needs time. When I found him after he escaped the lab… he attacked me too."

Sasuke stared at her in disbelief. How could she trust a crazy kid who tried to poison her? And how could she survive the poison in the first place when it had hit him so hard?

"The crows. They sensed the poison and flapped their wings so the mist wouldn't hit me. After I took Genji in, the crows stayed around me, not leaving me out of sight. And he was so quiet—awfully quiet. Full of anger and fear. But after some time, he granted me his trust, then the words kept coming, and now he's so bubbly I almost…." Tears brimmed at the corners but disappeared as she swallowed. "He is a good boy. You'll see."

"You took him to live with you–even though he attacked you?"

Hinata tilted her head. "When people are extremely hurt, they lash out. They want others to… feel their pain."

She wasn't wrong but this wasn't some random kid. That boy possessed one of the most powerful Kekkei Genkai.

"Many people fear the Sharingan," Sasuke said. Clans would think the Sharingan would make the yielder crazy. Surely, the Hyuga clan thought the same way. When she threw him a questioning look, he sighed. "Do the Hyuga know the rumors about the Uchiha clan?"

"We do. But I don't believe in hearsay," she said. "Genji needed somebody to trust. I decided to become that person."

Sasuke stared at her. She really was strange. No sane person would want to live under a roof with a kid who might poison you in your sleep. That crazy kid had almost succeeded in killing him and–if it hadn't been for the crows–her, too. That crazy kid.

Crazy… and broken. Like Sasuke had once been too.

They had arrived at a traditional wooden house in the middle of the compound. Genji sat at the stairs, fully dressed in his gear; only the shoes were missing. He dipped his head in greeting.

Hinata softly pinched the boy's pale cheek. "Ready?"

Genji started to put on his shoes and froze midway. "Ah I-I forgot! My forehead protector." One shoe already on his foot, he quickly jumped up the stairs.

"Reminds me of somebody," Sasuke grumbled. The clumsy fool didn't seem to resemble the Uchiha at all.

Hinata smiled a bit. "He's just a little nervous." She reached for a backpack. "We'll go to the training ground you saw yester–"

"We?" Sasuke repeated.

"Uh I… took a day off," Hinata said.

Sasuke lifted an eyebrow. He didn't need a babysitter. Especially since the boy seemed to listen to her commands and mirror her emotions. Sasuke needed a clean slate to question the kid. "You talked about trust. That trust should go both ways."

Sinking into herself, Hinata swallowed.

"I won't kill him."

She bit into her lip, her gaze piercing him like any Hyuga would scan for lies. "I know," she finally said.

"Or kidnap him."

"I… uh… okay." Her icy eyes narrowed, fingers twitching. She looked like she was contemplating fighting him right there. How stupid… and brave.

Sasuke sneered. "I won't teleport him to the moon or set him on fire."

Her thick lashes fluttered so quickly, he smirked at the concerned reaction. She was easy to tease.

"I'll bring him back afterward."

The silence around them was tense before Hinata murmured, "Right."

Genji jumped down the stairs. "I'm ready!"

Hinata laughed quietly, ruffling his white hair. "Sasuke will train with you, and after that we'll have lunch, right?"

"You're not coming?" Genji pouted a bit, and she planted a little peck on his forehead. "O-Okay..."

"Goodbye." She waved at them.

Just as they had walked through the door Sasuke sensed chakra behind the door. She must have instantly activated her Byakugan.

Apparently, Hinata had decided her trust meant watching them from afar.

At that very moment, Sasuke knew she would follow him to the end of the world if he were to take Genji away from her. Those eyes… full of concern, care and… love. Or was this just an act?

They walked to the training grounds in silence. When their feet met the frozen grass, Sasuke gave the boy a little look.

Sweat beaded on the pale forehead and ran down his eyebrows, pupils shaky.

Sasuke sighed internally. Contrary to what people thought of him, scaring children wasn't exactly something he enjoyed. Even if that psychotic kid had tried to poison him. "I won't hurt you. Now… get ready."

With a little nod, Geji took the Hyuga fighting stance. Blood-red eyes narrowed in determination.

Sasuke sneered at the odd scene.

An Uchiha clone among the Hyuga…

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Without question, Genji was talented. Whether it was for the genes or the training with the Hyuga, Sasuke couldn't say. All in all, the boy's fighting skills didn't resemble the Uchiha techniques at all. Without the Sharingan, Sasuke would have never guessed that the boy possessed the dojutsu of his clan.

Sasuke tried different things. He captured the kid in a Genjutsu (Genji needed some time to escape but that wasn't surprising), tried some basic Taijutsu, and wanted the boy to perform a transformation.

First, Genji didn't talk much, a little frown stuck across the pale face. But at one point, when Sasuke quickly appeared behind him, a chuckle escaped him.

"We're done," Sasuke said as Genji's breathing became heavier and his moves slower.

"Eh. Okay." Genji bowed stiffly, obviously another silly Hyuga custom.

As they walked back to Hinata's house in silence, the boy repeatedly peered at him before turning away.

"What?" Sasuke asked, rolling his eyes when the boy jerked his head in the other direction.

A gulp was audible. "You… You're strong. S-Stronger than Father. Do you think I could become that strong, too?"

Sasuke stretched his neck. "The foundation is there. And your Taijutsu is fine. Apart from that, you know almost nothing about how to use the Sharingan."

Genji ground his teeth, balling his fists.

"The Sharingan used to belong to the Uchiha. The Uchiha have been living in Konoha for decades, sharing its secrets and using its power. But you're not an Uchiha."

"I know." The shaky tone of Genji's voice let a shiver run across Sasuke's spine. But then a little grin rose on the pale lips. "I'm a Hyuga."

A Hyuga. Clenching his jaw, Sasuke stopped. The truth had to be told. "The Hyuga–like the Uchiha–were known for power. This clan can only offer you what they have. And they don't have much," he added. "What do you want?"

Genji blinked as if the question was beyond stupid. "I want to stay here."

"Why?"

"Hinata-sensei is my family. I want to stay with her."

"Are you aware that she might want you for power?"

Genji shook his head firmly. "She… isn't like that. I asked her to train me. She didn't want it… but I continued."

Sasuke looked up to the sky as fresh snowflakes descended on them. Hinata really was weird; it was difficult to look behind the curtain. Those tears lingering in her icy eyes earlier—could that be just an act? He couldn't know for sure, Hyuga were difficult to read.

But the kid… The expression on Genji's face left no hints for lies. He really considered her his family. What right would Sasuke have to tear a family apart?

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Hinata opened the door before they could even knock. Of course, she was already waiting for them. Damn the Byakugan.

After she told Genji to take a shower, Sasuke followed her into her office. Stacked papers and files covered the huge desk in the middle of the room. The snow on the trees shone through the window, contrasting the comfortable warmth inside.

Settling against the edge of her desk, Hinata folded her arms in front of her chest, ready to hear his predicament. White teeth pressed against her plump pink bottom lip.

"I have questions," he said.

Her jaw relaxed a bit, fingers quickly pulling a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Yes?"

"He managed to close a Tenketsu," Sasuke said. He had let Genji continue an attack to see where it led to. Surprisingly, he had been able to target that tiny chakra point. "How could he see it?"

Blood pumped in his veins as Hinata unzipped her black hoodie and slowly pulled off the sleeves. He couldn't tear his eyes off while his ears warmed up. What the—

Her tight, sleeveless fishnet top enveloped her curves in a way that didn't leave much room for imagination. He admitted that she was attractive, not only her beautiful face or soft voice. Or maybe that was also a strategic move?

Hinata simply pointed at her naked arms. "Because of this." Thin remains of ink visible on her pale smooth skin shone in the light.

His feet worked on his own, taking some steps towards her to look at the thin lines of ink on her arms. "What's that?"

"A map of Tenketsu I drew. The semi-permanent ink takes some time to fade." Hinata didn't seem to notice how warm the room must have become. "Of course, a Sharingan user can't see them like a Byakugan user could. However, Genji can visualize it and can apply it by projecting it. I drew it across my whole upper body back then."

Sasuke didn't want to imagine the map under the top as he scanned her arms and shoulders. His fingers itched to touch the ink and trace along the lines—"Clever," he pressed out as he finally turned away. "He fights like a Hyuga without being one."

"He is a Hyuga," Hinata said, voice firm.

The sound of her zipper being pulled up helped him come back to reality.

With a smirk, Sasuke took a seat in front of the desk. "Maybe."

Hinata blinked before a brief smile illuminated her face. Somehow it drew him in, he felt like she was radiating a warmth and calmness he had never witnessed before. He reminded himself to keep his distance.

"What have you decided?" Hinata asked, plump lips trembling as her fingers clasped together.

Sasuke released a sigh. Not much. He could easily take the kid to Konoha and dump him there. It would be the right thing to do. Hinata couldn't do much since he could teleport anywhere. Now aware of the poison, he wouldn't fall for those dirty tricks, either. But what would it bring? Genji would be put in the orphanage. He would learn to be alone. Just like Sasuke and Naruto had learned it. "I need more time. One more week."

Hinata shut her eyes, releasing a deep breath. "All right. Thank you."

To his surprise, she seemed okay with it. Did she think this would make him decide for her? Absurd. He just needed more time to evaluate all options and to find out where Hinata Hyuga's motives lay. Where his own motives lay.

"Are you hungry? It's time for lunch."

Right now her motives included food. "Yeah."

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Since it was flu season, Sasuke was asked to leave the hospital after some days. The effects of the poison didn't affect him anymore. The Hyuga prepared a room for him in Hinata's house. He didn't object, in fact, that way he could observe Hinata better and get behind her true intentions.

Thus, he watched her carefully.

As soon as she'd come home from work, she would spend her free time with Genji. They would sit in the living room and talk about the boy's day at school and other daily activities.

Sasuke's thoughts wandered to a situation from his past when his mother had asked him about his day at school.

Apart from that, the Hinata and Genji seemed to have other rituals.

Every day Hinata would lie down next to Genji and wait for him to fall asleep even though he was way too old for that habit. After that, she would go to her office and continue working.

They would read to each other out loud. Sometimes they would visit a memorial in the garden of the compound, place flowers in front of the stone, and pray.

Sasuke stayed and watched.

And waited.

It would just take time for him to uncover her act.

He just had to wait.

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After some days, it was as if somebody had pulled a switch on Genji. His fear had vanished and now he even pulled a little smirk when Sasuke struck him to the ground.

Or maybe Genji had always been a little brat. Maybe Hinata was going soft on him. Sometimes Sasuke would find them in the living room, both fast asleep at the Kotatsu. He would sit down next to them–to observe.

He would uncover her play.

The crows on the window seat cooed peacefully. And Hinata's quiet breathing and Genji's snoring made him doze off eventually.

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The week went by faster than expected.

Every day, Sasuke followed Genji to the training field to get an understanding of his abilities. Not only the physical but the psychological ones. The boy was a strange mixture of quiet and loud. Maybe it just reminded Sasuke of himself as a kid; he wasn't sure.

Sasuke knew he would need to inform Konoha. He had nothing on Hinata but becoming a traitor again and disappointing Naruto—

"I've got a question!" Genji interrupted his train of thought. They were already on their way back to the house. "And ehm, Hinata-sensei said I can ask you about it."

Sasuke waited. Surely, she wanted to manipulate him through the child.

"Sometimes… my eyes start to bleed." Genji lowered his chin. "Hinata-sensei said it never happened to her. It only happens when I train really hard. But I want to get strong and uh… Is the bleeding… a bad thing?"

A memory of Itachi talking about the Sharingan flashed in Sasuke's mind. Usually, the family would slowly explain those little things about their power. But Genji had nobody to explain to him how his Sharingan worked.

What a waste of potential. But none of his concern.

"Why do you want to be strong in the first place?" Sasuke mumbled. Why even talk about the Mangekyo? All it had brought everybody was pain.

"I want to protect my sensei and my clan. And one day, when I'm the strongest… I will kill Father." Genji's Sharingan glimmered with determination. "I will avenge my brother."

"Your brother?"

"My brother always told me that I was the fastest. He said, 'One day, you'll have to run. Watch for my sign.' I didn't get what he meant. I was just happy he saw my strength."

Sasuke halted, watching the boy carefully.

"One day, Father came to us and asked for the fastest one of us. Everybody turned to me and I was… so proud. But my brother stepped forward and said it was him. I… I was so angry at him. I wanted Father to know it was me. I wanted to say something but my brother pinched me so hard, I didn't." Genji swallowed, clenching his jaw. "Father took him with him and… he didn't come back."

Sasuke heard Hinata's voice echoing in his head. That 'Father' had used the clones as organ donors. Genji had been too small to understand back then that his brother—

"What was your brother's name?" Sasuke asked quietly.

Genji blinked. "He—we didn't have names. Hinata-sensei was the one to give me a name."

The first to give him a name. Hinata really was strange. Especially, to give the boy a name with that meaning… "How did you manage to escape?"

"There was a fire at the lab. I saw it… and remembered what my brother said… and I ran."

The sign. Sasuke's nails bored into his palm so hard, he could feel his warm blood pulsing against his skin.

After wiping his hand on his shirt, he put a hesitant palm on the boy's back.

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He knocked once and waited for confirmation before marching into Hinata's office. "I'll train him."

Hinata didn't seem surprised to see him, damn the Byakugan. Still, she looked up from her desk, a tiny smile dancing on her full lips. "Oh?"

"You can't teach him on the Sharingan. Only I can."

Her smile broadened "Genji will be so glad to hear that."

"One more thing." Eyebrows knitted together, Sasuke placed his hand right on her table and locked eyes with her. "I will search for him." That 'Father' will pay.

Hinata's lips parted as she rose from her chair. The pen in her hand landed on her table, right on top of the papers.

"You want to join the search for Shin," she whispered. Her eyes traveled up and down his face. She swung open the window and leaned out. When the first cold wind had passed the office, a crow appeared on the window seat. "A squad is out there searching for him. I'll tell you their location."

Sasuke answered with a short nod. Her agreeing and even cooperating hadn't been part of his plan. Did she really decide to put all her trust in him? What was it all about?

Hinata tip-toed slowly across the room and stopped right in front of him. "I have a question I wanted to ask you," she said.

He swallowed, trying to tear his gaze from her full lips moving so gracefully when speaking.

"Back then… did revenge help you?" she asked, and he felt stupid that his thoughts had wandered off in the first place.

Sasuke lowered his head. "I don't think so."

"I see."

Sasuke thought about it again, trying to sort his memories. Revenge had been part of his life for a long time. "There is no way back to what it was before. Revenge feels like the solution… but it isn't." He sat down on the chair, and she leaned against her desk again. "When I left to atone, I saw that revenge had only hurt me. And others. It wasn't the cure but only an obstacle to living up to the full potential."

Hinata listened silently, her eyes attentive. For the first time, he didn't feel judged or pitied. Instead, she listened like his experience might help her as Genji's guardian. There was respect in her glance, and it made him feel seen. Not for his power or his strength but for him as a person.

"Do you think there is something… to help somebody deal with their wish for revenge?" she asked.

"Yeah," Sasuke said. "Care and affection. A chance for a future… You're on the right track."

Hinata's eyes went wide. She nodded slowly, her hand gently grasping his, intertwining their fingers. Her other hand traced along his jaw. Warmth flooded his body as his gaze shifted to her soft-looking lips.

"Sasuke… I… thank you." Her moon-like eyes focused on him. She drew him in once again, and he leaned down so their lips were close enough to feel her breath stroking his face. It was like she put a spell on him that he couldn't resist. Was this her strategy to get him on her side? If that was her plan all along, it worked.

"Clever," he mumbled. He wanted to leave all his doubts behind and just kiss her—

"'Clever?'" she repeated, quickly letting go of his hand. There was a certain look of pain on her face before she lowered her head. "I will inform you as soon as the crow arrives."

He nodded and left the room with fast steps.

If he'd stay, it would lead to him opening up even more. It might lead him to actually trust her. He needed distance. Slowly, something inside him had started to respect her and her way to see through everybody's intentions. She was different from other clan heads, igniting hope within him—within everybody. Hope for a better future.

Part of him wanted to stay, get closer, and try to become the person she could always put her trust in.

But he couldn't do that. With his past, he saw no such future for himself. It would all lead to more pain for them.

He would join the search for Shin and make him pay for his crimes.

And then he would have to make a decision.

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Chapter Text

Human

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When Sasuke came downstairs in the morning, Hinata and Genji were sitting at the table and having breakfast. Digging his chopsticks into his bowl, Genji mumbled a quiet greeting.

Hinata smiled a polite smile before taking a sip out of her steaming cup.

Sasuke had decided to ignore yesterday's incident. However, he wondered why Hinata had pulled away from the kiss. She wanted him to keep her secret. In one moment, she seemed to want him close while him–Him, well… Just a lapse in judgment. It wasn't hard to admit his attraction but he had to remind himself that most likely it was all part of her attempts to manipulate him. After all, she was the clan head and calculating enough to achieve her goals.

Turning her to Genji, Hinata put down her tea. "What jutsu do you learn in school right now? Maybe Sasuke can help you."

While Genji chattered, Sasuke tuned out for a moment. Part of him had worried that she would be mad but she didn't seem to mind. What did she really think of him? Who am I to you, Hinata Hyuga? Reading a Hyuga proved to be difficult, especially Hinata as she had always been so sheltered.

The noise of flapping wings echoed through the house, followed by caws.

Completely unfazed by the crows, Genji continued babbling about his new jutsu. There was almost no time for anyone else to speak up. Sasuke couldn't help but smirk. This was how his father must have felt sometimes.

As soon as the bird landed on Hinata's side of the table, she discretely reached out for the message.

"The location of the squad," she said quietly and handed over the scroll. As their fingers met, she gave him a long look.

Why trust him to join the mission even though she couldn't know how he would decide later? Hinata really was strange. Softly pressing his fingers on top of her palm, he let them linger–just for a moment. But it was useless.

Who am I to you?

Hinata pulled back her hand, leaving behind a cold emptiness on his skin. "I informed them already. It would help if you could take some necessities for them with you." She motioned towards the corner of the room. "If anything comes up, you can reach me through the crows. They observe and report to me."

After scanning the scroll, Sasuke stood up and grabbed the bags. His Rinnegan opened a portal. "Right."

Genji's forehead creased. "Uh… You're leaving?"

"Sasuke will be back soon," Hinata said. The firm softness in her voice made Sasuke question whether he was following her commands or just working on the same goal.

He stepped into the portal without tearing his gaze off her as it gradually dispersed. With that simple gear she always wore around the house, she somehow appeared so familiar. The dark hair on that flawless skin, the gentle and kind smile–he memorized every little detail of that moment.

"Take care, Sasuke," she said.

"Yeah," he mumbled.

Upon exiting the portal, Sasuke found a group of three Hyuga ninjas, one older and two his age.

"We've expected you." The older Hyuga opened a map and pointed to a place. "We assume the lab to be underground. We need to be as close as possible to spot it with the Byakugan. That means we have go on foot."

Wrinkling his nose, Sasuke nodded slightly. His thoughts were still with Hinata. The way she said goodbye made him wish to come back right there and just… stay. When was the last time he wanted to stay anywhere?

Concentrate.

The mission would take some time. Time he would need to think everything through.

.

.

.

His portals once again proved to be useful. He wouldn't need to stay somewhere he didn't have to. They improved the process of restocking supplies for the squad as well as the exchange of information with Hinata. Lastly, he could sleep in a bed instead of camping with the three Hyuga. Sometimes he would return to the Hyuga search squad to check on their status at night. Most of the time they were just resting anyway.

From now on, Sasuke's days followed a strict routine. After breakfast, he would train with Genji, teleport to the Hyuga squad afterwards, and return to the compound at night.

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.

.

The sun had already set, and the frozen wind stung his skin. Even though it was almost night, he stayed with the Hyuga squad. Some kilometers from here, they thought they had found a cue–strangely aligned little footsteps in the snow.

Seated on a thick tree branch, Sasuke leaned back against the trunk. It could have been anything. But every lead could be the one.

What would Hinata and the brat be up to now? Since it was around dinner time, they would probably sit together, chat and laugh. Being with them had become an oddly peaceful routine; they didn't expect much from him and still... Would they miss him?

Sasuke sighed, turning his head to the Hyuga kneeling on the ground. That cue better be worth it.

The older Hyuga continued scanning the surroundings while the two younger Hyuga sat on another tree branch. After a while, the older man shrugged and shook his head.

Useless. Sasuke stood up. He nodded at the elder and the other two but they were now caught up in talking. What they didn't know is that he could still hear them. He halted.

"We're close," one told the other. "I feel it in my bones."

"You should rather see it with your eyes." The other snorted. "So, what are you gonna do if we catch him and come home?"

"I'm going to bring him to our lady. She'll be so thankful, she'll fall around my neck…damn, as her husband, I'll probably never have to move a finger again."

"You want to marry her? Has she even talked to you?"

"I asked her out once. She said she was busy at the moment. But once we finish this mission, she—"

"Pah!" The man chuckled. "Yeah, she's busy and all, but I told you she has no time for an idiot like you. She's working all day… and even housing that strange kid."

Another snort was audible before the first one spoke again, "She'll make time for me… during the night if you get what I mean—"

The wood of the tree trunk cracked between Sasuke's fingers, loud enough for the men to perk up.

"Eh? Uchiha? Are you okay?"

"I'll be back tomorrow." Sasuke opened a portal back to Hinata's house. To his surprise, he appeared right in front of her.

"Sasuke." Hinata blinked, a slight blush settling on her cheeks before she quickly straightened her shoulders. "I didn't expect you here tonight."

"There was nothing relevant." In fact, he felt incredibly annoyed. But it made sense that Hyuga men would try to woo Hinata. After all, she was the most powerful person in the clan.

"I see. It's an advantage that you can change locations so easily," she said.

It was. And he wouldn't say no to a bed right now. Especially since he slept better at her house. "I'll join them in the morning."

"All right. I'd like to speak to you for a moment, please." She beckoned him to follow her.

As always, a bunch of crows rested in the corners of her office. Apart from some black feathers on the floor, it was tidy. In the middle of the room, a big crow sat on the edge of the thick wooden table, cooing quietly. Hinata stopped behind her table and unrolled a map. The crow hopped across the table and nudged her arm with its head.

"I'm aware that you will soon find Shin." Hinata's voice was so low he almost couldn't understand her. It appeared that she didn't want Genji to overhear. He came closer to stand next to her. Her delicate finger pointed to a location on the map. "I expect him to be here."

"Possible." Sasuke quickly memorized the spot. But he felt there was something else she wanted to speak to him about. She didn't regain distance. Their proximity felt so comfortable that he didn't care but longed for more. He leaned in. "What is it?"

"What still worries me… is Genji," she whispered in his ear, her breath warm on his skin. She turned away to sit on the edge of the table. The crow jumped onto her lap. "Did he tell you why he wants to become strong?"

"To kill his 'Father.'"

"Exactly. Revenge is his goal." Pursing her lips, Hinata stroked the bird's beak. "I agreed to training because I wanted Genji to protect himself. But if it comes to it, how will it affect him?"

Sasuke rubbed his chin. "Genji won't be there when we get to him."

"Indeed. But you and I both know that capturing Shin alive is the optimal outcome. We need the information," she said. "Genji wants to be the one to kill him."

"I know." In fact, he understood the boy more than he would admit openly. His hand reached out to pet the crow on her lap. The crow answered with an approving sound. Its feathers were soft, albeit cold–maybe from the weather outside? Another thought crossed his mind that maybe this crow knew Itachi. Everything about the present seemed connected to his past. Sasuke clenched his jaw and locked eyes with Hinata. "After I killed my brother, I was out of control. I didn't care. I didn't care about my life–about anybody's life."

"It's… horrible." Tears flashed at Hinata's lashes. She tried to hide them under her bangs but he still saw them. They were gone when she lifted her head again. "I don't want Genji to lose himself. I'll give everything to keep him safe."

Safe. Sasuke had been "safe" at Konoha once. Naruto and Sakura had tried to save him but it didn't help stop him from his quest for revenge. So what could have helped him back then?

He exhaled, and told her, "He might never be safe if he doesn't solve it for himself. Keeping him back will only make him leave."

"I see." She tilted her head, focusing her attentive glance on him. She stood up. "Well, then. I will support him and… trust. I won't stand in his way. I trust him to find his way and I will lead him there."

Lead him there?

Sasuke's eyes widened. Sakura and Naruto had tried to keep him from his revenge and it had driven them apart. Kakashi had tried to force him to let go. But his mind had been clouded. Revenge always does that.

Hinata tried to see through the fog. There was no real right or wrong, just darkness and mist.

Another realization hit him. There had been no strategy behind it. She loves the kid. She didn't care for power; she already had it. A shiver ran down his spine. Watching her had been useless. The only thing she desired was peace and healing–just like him. She didn't know who she was dealing with.

Sasuke grasped her upper arm, and she turned to face him. "People like Genji–We usually don't deserve trust. It's dangerous."

She blinked. "Perhaps." Her other hand reached for his chest and rested there. "I trust you, too."

"The strangest leader," he mumbled as he pulled her closer to him. She really was strange–painfully hopeful. Trusting someone who wanted revenge would always remain dangerous; The hate could always turn them into somebody else. He almost killed Naruto and Sakura–what would Genji do if the hate consumed him? Nevertheless, Hinata's warmth drew him in and gave him a feeling of peace. He leaned down further until he felt her breath on his lips. He knew they shouldn't. Still, he couldn't help but want to give in…

A knock on the door brought them back to reality.

"Um." Hinata's Byakugan activated for a second as she pulled back. Her cheeks shone in a pink color. "Come in, Ko."

Damn.

"Did I interrupt?" Ko threw the coldest glare at Sasuke.

Hinata shook her head slowly. "I think we were… done."

"Very well. Lady Hinata, I have the files that you asked for." Ko handed over some papers before taking some steps back.

"Thank you, Ko." Hinata started to read only to be interrupted by Ko's subtle cough. "Yes?"

"There's something else I'd like to discuss. In private," Ko said.

"I was just leaving, "Sasuke grumbled and stomped out the door, finally gaining distance. "Good night."

"Good night, Sasuke. Sleep well."

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.

.

"I trust you too." Her voice echoed in his mind as he walked down the corridor. It had happened again and he pondered why. He had never felt attracted to any woman. He never wanted to be close to anybody. Most people wanted his strength, his background, or outer appearance. Hinata had never been even close or interested. She had it all. Power, beauty, and even love. In the past, he had never been interested in her. But seeing her lead, seeing her care, seeing her–it changed him.

"Sasuke-sensei?" A little voice interrupted his thoughts. When had he allowed the kid to call him that?

Sasuke stopped in front of Genji's room. The lights were dimmed, the starlight gazing through the window. "Hm?"

"Uhh. Could you come in? I can't sleep."

Isn't that Hinata's task? Though, she was working right now. With a quiet huff, Sasuke shuffled to Genji's bed and sat down on the edge.

Genji patted the empty space on the mattress. "Could you… tell me a story?"

"Aren't you too old for—"

"I had a bad dream." Genji pouted, eyebrows furrowed. "I was already asleep and Hinata-sensei was already here. I… I don't think she'll come back. Please, just one story. Five minutes."

"Next time—" Sasuke froze, his thoughts shifting to his brother. "Next time, Sasuke." Sasuke lay down next to Genji. "A story? I don't know any stories."

"About… the Uchiha."

"What about them?" Sasuke mumbled.

"I heard that their summons were cats but one or two were summoning crows."

"The Uchiha summons were cats, yeah. My brother…" Sasuke couldn't help but smile at the memory of Itachi with his cat ears. "Itachi also worked with the crows. But they were summoned by Shisui."

"Hinata-sensei has crows too. They're cool." Genji pulled the blanket up to his nose. "Was your brother strong?"

"He was."

"But… he died?" Genji whispered.

"He was sick." Grounding his teeth, Sasuke shut his eyes. "And… my revenge killed him."

A silence filled the room, only interrupted by calm breathing. "H-How?"

"I was rash… It clouded my view and the hate made it easy to manipulate me. They all did. All my life I thought I needed revenge to be happy again. And in the end, it didn't feel like I pictured it. It just hurt the ones who were precious to me. When you're seeking revenge, you're prone to manipulation."

Genji gulped, shifting a bit. "Manipulation?"

"I didn't listen. That revenge killed my brother."

"Mmm. B-But–"

"Genji, are you all right?" Quiet steps echoed in the corridor before Hinata appeared in the doorframe. "Oh. Um. Hello, Sasuke. I'm sorry, I thought you were in your room." She turned to leave. "I didn't want to interrupt. Good nigh—"

"Wait, sensei!" Genji exclaimed as he rapidly sat up in his bed.

She stopped. "Huh?"

Pursing his lips, Genji looked at Sasuke before looking at Hinata again. "Ummm. Could you lie down next to me?"

"B-But Sasuke is already—" When did she start to stutter again?

"I can't sleep… Please. Five minutes." Genji folded his arms across his chest and pouted. This little…

Hinata shifted her weight from one foot to another. "I don't think—"

"You can join," Sasuke grumbled. "I don't think he'll sleep without you."

There was a little silence. "Oh… All right." Hinata entered and sat down on the bed frame.

"It's fine. Five minutes," Sasuke mumbled from Genji's other side. "He won't let us sleep otherwise."

With a quiet giggle, Hinata settled into the bed to lie next to Genji. "Well, okay. What were you talking about?"

Revenge. Hate. Manipulation.

"The crows," Genji said quickly. "One day, I want to get the contract, too. I want to know more about the Uchiha. More about Shisui and Itachi."

"I…" Hinata peered at Sasuke. "I don't know any stories… do you?"

With a little smirk, Sasuke shrugged his shoulders before turning to Genji. "Shisui liked bratty children."

"Really?" Hinata whispered and laughed quietly.

Sasuke sank back into the bed and released a breath. "Yeah."

"Tell us more about them," Genji said, putting one corner of his blanket on Sasuke.

Sasuke sighed. The only stories on Shisui and Itachi could be told by him. Nobody had even asked him before. Wouldn't it be right to share the truth?

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.

The brazen sunlight tickled his face, dancing behind his closed eyelids. Opening them, the view in front of him almost seemed like a dream. Fast asleep, Hinata lay there, her chest rising and falling slowly with every deep breath. Genji must have sneaked out when they had slept. This little brat. Without him, it was now only Sasuke and Hinata in the bed.

I trust you too. A shinobi would never sleep close to somebody they wouldn't trust. Other parties would always try to manipulate their enemies—or even allies.

A little smile curled Hinata's lips, indicating a peaceful dream. For a brief moment, Sasuke imagined how it would feel to pull her close until she would be pressed against him. To see her wake up with a smile on her face…

A strand of hair hung over her nose, and his fingers reached out to adjust it. Her full lips twitched from the intrusion, pitch black lashes now fluttering.

Something struck him right into his chest. What the hell was he doing? She was about to wake up and it would lead to more problems. He had a mission; Hinata had a clan to lead.

Pretending to be asleep, he quickly shut his eyes and waited.

He felt her shift. A couple of silent seconds passed before she rose from the bed. Her quiet footsteps on the tatami mats were almost inaudible as she left the room. A few minutes passed before he stood up.

"Good morning." Hinata smiled at him when he entered the living room. A little blush on her cheeks spread prettily down her neck.

What were her thoughts on sleeping in a bed together? His ears burned as he sat down at the table. Sure, the situation was caused by the little brat; they both knew it. But it wasn't the first time they had ended up in a situation so unfamiliar.

"Goood morning. Did you sleep well?" Genji leaned against the table, targeting a sneaky wink at Sasuke.

"Morning," Sasuke mumbled, squinting at him. This little brat must have planned this. Not granting him a response, Sasuke picked up an onigiri from the plate.

"Uh and how did you sleep, Hinata-sensei?" The grin on Genji's face was telling but Hinata's glance stuck to the paper in her hand. Sasuke internally sighed in relief.

"Mmm. Fine," she said quietly. "Usually I don't get to sleep in."

For a fraction of a second, Sasuke witnessed the scene in front of him from an imaginary sideline. Him, Hinata, and Genji at the table eating breakfast–it felt surreal. One whole month had flown by so quickly and he didn't loathe training the little brat as much as he'd thought he would.

An irrational fear started to well up inside of him. But he couldn't say what it was, so he decided to ignore it and change the subject. "What's on the clan head's agenda today?"

"Meetings, paperwork…" Hinata's delicate fingers clenched around the paper. "You should join the squad right after breakfast today."

"Okay." When had it become so easy to listen to her commands?

The squad now changed their direction to the spot Hinata had shown him yesterday.

"Not long until I'll bring her his head," the young Hyuga man had told the other one. Sasuke clenched his jaw. If that 'Father' was just as strong as Genji, the Hyuga couldn't do anything about it. Only Sasuke could take Shin down.

How would Hinata react? He couldn't help but picture her pretty smile and warm breath on his skin when he woke up.

He must be going insane.

Sasuke shook his head, which made the Hyuga men turn to him, confusion written on their faces.

"Are you all right, Uchiha?"

"It's nothing," Sasuke said. "When we find him, don't get yourself killed."

The two younger men scowled at him, but nobody dared say anything.

"You," Sasuke told the older. "You will lead me to him."

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.

.

Hours later, they found the lab.

As told, the older Hyuga led the way; Sasuke followed. His blood pumped forcefully inside his veins as they ran through narrow underground corridors.

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.

The fight with Shin didn't last long. Sasuke's fury rose by only looking at that pale, disgusting piece of shit. Sharingan eyes implanted in Shin's head and body only emphasized the fact that he was an abomination and not human anymore. The stories Genji and Hinata had told him still lingered in his memory, but he knew he would need to keep his cool. He struck hard but not hard enough to kill.

As Hinata said, they needed the monster for interrogation, so Sasuke bound Shin safely.

He had appointed the Hyuga squad to take care of the clones in that dark lab of hell. They found at least two dozen children, all approximately Genji's age. Some younger, some older.

It was time.

Time to return to Hinata.

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.

Sasuke teleported himself and Shin some meters in front of the compound gates. Shin screeched, shouting curses at him to get to him, but Sasuke didn't mind. Defeated men tend to get loud, he had learned to deal with that. Using his sword, he forced Shin onto his knees. His thoughts revolved around what was about to happen now.

Would the new Hyuga clan be even able to interrogate Shin and keep him locked up? How would Genji deal with it?

A few minutes passed before a swarm of crows flew above their heads. Side by side, Hinata and Genji marched towards them. Sasuke's mouth opened a bit.

She brought him along.

Hinata's face was like stone, the veins of her Byakugan piercing the pale skin. The crows behind her appeared almost like a dark fog, and at that moment he noticed the respect he harbored for her.

The two stopped right in front of him and Shin. Genji stared at the man he had learned to call 'Father.'

Still fighting against his shackles, Shin shouted, "Uchiha! You didn't even bring me to Konoha? Wait, who's this? The puppy who ran away–I started to chain the younger ones after that. And aaah. A Hyuga. You walk like a princess, you know that? Spoiled brat." He spat on the ground.

Hinata didn't move, not batting an eye. Shin wasn't wrong about the princess thing; she really looked like the royalty she was. Head high, shoulders back, chin up. She must be used to any kind of insults.

Shin glared at Genji. "Boy, set me free. Don't let them manipulate you."

"I…" A frown spread over Genji's face. "W-What did you do to my brother?"

Shin's red eyes turned to slits. "Your brother?"

"You took him with you… after you asked for the fastest."

Shin's glance shifted from left to right and back rapidly. "I took his lungs."

Pupils shaky, Genji grimaced, his fists red from pressure. "You… killed him."

Sasuke tightened his grip on his katana. Of course, Hinata and he knew the truth but a child would have hope in the lost cause.

"I did not," Shin said. "The enemies killed him! Why would I need new lungs in the first place if they hadn't attacked me. Maybe they even came from their clans?" He gestured with his head at Sasuke and Hinata. "But don't worry, boy, I slayed the enemies. I burned them into the ground. I got our revenge."

A strange feeling stirred inside Sasuke's gut. He tried to read Hinata but her emotions seemed sealed inside of her.

"Listen, boy. I will bring your brother back if that's what you want," Shin growled. The attempts to bargain with Genji wasn't what Sasuke had expected. Pressing the katana against Shin's shoulder, Sasuke exchanged another look with Hinata. Time to end the conversation. He just needed her consent, a little nod and—

She shook her head, and he froze. What? She didn't want him to intervene? Why? Didn't she see what dangerous direction this was taking?

"Boy! Set me free and help me make this right," Shin hissed. "Kill this treacherous Uchiha and her–" His gaze stuck at Hinata, making Sasuke want to bulge them out to never look in her direction again. "Let's bring your brother back."

Genji's red irises shook as he continued to stare at Shin. "Bring. Him. Back?" he whispered.

"Of course. You're all mine–I'll just make another new one."

A piercing silence cut the air until some crows cried out.

"Come on, boy," Shin growled. "Don't you see it. You are me. You're not theirs and you'll never be. They are lying to you. Do you think she'd be your mommy? It's all manipulation–love is manipulation. I give you honesty. I give you transparency. I'll give you your brother and all the power you want."

Sasuke watched Genji carefully. The frown on his face was deep, way to deep for a child and uncharacteristic for the boy. If Genji would decide to set the monster free and betray Hinata, a backup plan was needed. He needed to protect Hinata and be ready to fight Shin and Genji if necessary. In the end, Genji was just like he had been as a child–a traumatized boy that would be easy to manipulate and prone to hate.

"Genji," Hinata said, interrupting Sasuke's thoughts. "What would you like to do?"

"'Genji'?" Shin's dirty barking laughter rang. "That's not his name. He's Shin. He's me. You're me, boy. You know it. Don't let those people tell you what you're not."

Hinata's hand squeezed Genji's shoulder, and he quickly exchanged a glance with her.

"Don't you see it?" Shin growled. "She's a scam. You're her dog to jump through the hoops. I will care for you. And I'll kill her myself when I get out. And you know I will."

Sasuke's body pulsed with fury, aching to set the monster on fire–on an eternal fire. That piece of scum hurt so many children, no matter if they were clones. He didn't own them. Sasuke wished for his death, but he knew better. Anger and hate wouldn't make him act rashly again. But Genji… he saw his past self in the boy–it worried him.

"Come on, little one. Show them who you really belong to. They will never accept you. You'll always be my clone to them," Shin said. "You'll get older and then realize that they wanted you for power and then you'll snap their necks. Kill them and join the only person who cares for you. Join your Father."

Biting his lip, Genji turned to Hinata. The expression on her face remained calm and cold. Suddenly, Sasuke could read her: She didn't even hold the slightest doubt.

Genji's shoulders straightened as he took a step forward. His finger pointed at Shin. "You… You're… a monster from my past," he said, voice now firm. "But I don't fear you. And I… will never be like you."

Shin's eyes widened, confusion evident on his face. "Eh? You're wrong, stupid boy. You are me! I own you—"

"I think we heard enough," Hinata said, and Genji nodded. She raised her hand into the air. The crows cried out instantly. "He can continue talking at the interrogation unit. Put him down."

A mist, almost invisible, evaporated around Genji.

"Poison on me? Useless!" Shin exclaimed. "I was the one who made you learn—What—"

Blood ran down Genji's cheeks from the blood-red eyes that now had a triangular pattern in it.

The crows started to flap their wings, shielding Hinata from one side and Sasuke from the other. Shin fell to the ground, face first. He twitched, obviously struggling. Sasuke knew it wouldn't be enough to kill him, though.

Genji continued to stare at Shin lying in the dirt. When Hinata embraced him, tears started to run down his cheeks.

"Genji… You did great. The way you saw through his manipulation…" She swallowed, hugging him tightly, pressing their cheeks together.

"You should be proud of yourself," Sasuke said, giving Genji a pat on the head. "You're nothing alike."

"I…" Genji gulped. "Yeah."

"Should we go home?" Hinata asked quietly. The crows retreated as the mist of poison evaporated. Black feathers now covered the snow.

Genji took her hand. "What… what will happen to him?"

Sasuke waited for Hinata's verdict. Shin would need to be secured and interrogated. They would need a plan for Hinata's people to secure him. And what would happen to the clones?

"Sasuke," Hinata said. "We have no capacities to keep him locked here. Would you bring him to Konoha?"

To Konoha? Sasuke lifted a brow. "If I hand him in, they will find out about everything."

"I know," she said softly. "Still, it's time to speak to Konoha. No more hiding."

Sasuke swallowed when he saw the sadness in her eyes. So this had been her plan? If so, why did it feel so wrong?

When he hesitated, she held his glance. "Please, Sasuke."

With a little nod, he opened a portal, grasping Shin by the neck. He turned to Hinata and Genji before he stepped in. It was strange to leave now, after the time they'd spent together.

Hinata bowed. "Thank you for your help, Sasuke. I will wait for a letter or a messenger so—"

"I'll be back," he mumbled. A warmth filled his chest as he saw the tiny smiles on Hinata's and Genji's faces.

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.

.

The Hokage office hadn't changed at all. Leaning back from his thick desk, Kakashi threw Sasuke a tired look. "How long did you know about this?"

Sasuke thought about all the possibilities. In the end, the interrogation of Shin would reveal all about Hinata and Genji. "A month."

Kakashi tilted his head from left to right. "What did you do when you found out?"

"Surveyed them. Assessed the boy's abilities."

"Where did you stay?"

"At her house," Sasuke mumbled.

"At her house, aha. All right… You surely had your reasons, didn't you?" Kakashi smiled behind his mask. "So what now? Shin can stay in our prison and will be interrogated by T.I. The clones can stay in our orphanage and–"

"No," Sasuke said. After Hinata fought so long for this, he didn't want this either. He had another plan for them.

Kakashi's brows furrowed. "Hm?"

"They're Uchiha clones. As the last living Uchiha, isn't it my right to decide about their whereabouts?"

"You… accept them as your kin?" Kakashi asked. "Sasuke, I never thought you… all right. So what do you decide?"

"They will join Hinata Hyuga's clan. It's on her to decide how."

"Eh?" Kakashi blinked but the smile behind the mask grew wider. "Tell me more about it."

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.

.

As soon as his talk with Kakashi came to an end, he teleported back to her house.

After knocking and entering her office, he stopped in front of her desk. "Where's Genji?"

"Sasuke." She bit on her lower lip, hands fidgeting slightly. "He's sleeping. It was a hard day for him."

Sasuke nodded. "You taught him well. He was able to see through the deception even when the pain can cloud the view."

"Did you doubt him?" she asked.

He didn't answer. His past made him doubt everybody even himself. However, he had her let her deal with the situation in her way. "Did you doubt him?" he asked.

"I trusted him." She rose from her chair and walked towards him. "And thank you for guiding him, too. I know you spoke to him. In fact, I hoped you would."

Sasuke sneered. "As I thought—You planned this."

She shook her head. "You were never part of any plan…"

"You're clever enough to do what you need to reach your goals," he said. The assessment was true after all; she was smart enough to lead the clan and get the people to act accordingly.

"Clever…" She sighed, staring into space. "Leading and manipulation," she said, once again petting the crow on the table. "One would think there are some similarities. Both imply action and being influenced."

He nodded. "Indeed."

"But there is one major difference." She looked at him and a smile formed on her lips. "Only one person benefits from manipulation. Leading–benefits both."

A true leader. But how much leading and how much manipulation was in her?

"Sasuke. You and I both—we are often the subject to manipulation."

Indeed, being heirs to a large clan had this perk. He cleared his throat. "You said you valued honesty."

"Yes. So let's be honest here." Hinata straightened her shoulders, folding her arms in front of her chest. "What did Lord Hokage decide? When will Genji have to leave for Konoha?

Genji leaving for Konoha… Sasuke remained silent even when the crows cried out nervously.

"You don't have to hide it. I knew about the consequences," Hinata said softly. "And I decided to resign from my position to go back to Konoha and be there for Genji. "

Sasuke's brow furrowed. "You'd give up your position?"

"Of course." She tilted her head. "There's more than being the leader. I made the decision even before you and I met."

Sasuke inhaled. "No need for that. He can stay. And you can adopt the other clones if you want."

Her eyes went wide, arms falling to her sides. "This… What are the conditions?"

"More collaboration. Sharing resources–Kakashi will tell you the details."

She blinked before pressing her hands together. "It… all right. How–"

"I vouched for you," he said, and her full lips parted slightly. "What will you decide?"

"I need to think about it," she said. "Maybe it wouldn't be wrong to let them decide…"

Sasuke inclined his head. Hinata Hyuga remained full of surprises. He still couldn't predict all her decisions. It annoyed and intrigued him at the same time.

"Thank you. For everything," she whispered. "I appreciate it."

He waited for her to add something, but she didn't, so he took some steps back and got ready to leave. She got what she wanted. He didn't even know what else to say. The only question he had was... "Back then, why didn't you kiss me?"

Her hand moved to her lips, touching them slightly before she said, "You said it was clever."

"So?"

"I wasn't being clever. In fact, it was the opposite. I let my feelings guide me but realized… that you felt manipulated by me. So if we had continued… And you would play along... I feared manipulation too," she said.

She was scared. Indeed, it was hard to read her. Trust was a luxury they couldn't afford. He—because of his past. Hinata—because of her present.

Sasuke knew he had to act. All this time, women were following him, and he thought that one day he would just give in and settle. But for once, it seemed that he would need to take the initiative.

He took some steps towards her. "There's nothing more to gain from me. You got all you wanted."

"Yes." She smiled a little, her hand reaching out for his face. He leaned into the touch and let her stroke along his jaw. Her fresh scent was so calming, almost intoxicating. She was so close yet so far. He towered over her so their lips were almost touching. What a sweet torture.

"So what do you want from me now?" he mumbled.

"To… kiss you?" she whispered.

He buried his fingers in her hair, feeling the silky strands on his skin. "Is that a question—or a command?"

She didn't seem to care because her warm lips pressed against his, sending shivers down his spine. "Whatever… you want," she breathed as she broke the kiss.

His lips found hers again, deepening the kiss and savoring the moment.

He couldn't possibly leave her or the boy. She led him here.

He smiled into the kiss.

Clever.