章節 3: Methods of Change

(3047 words)

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After finishing the housework Mikoto usually handled, Itachi still wasn't tired. The weather was warm and slightly uncomfortable, but the restlessness in him was stronger. Instead of taking a nap, he decided to climb onto the roof of his home. From this vantage point, he could see the entire Uchiha compound, and beyond it, parts of Konoha itself.

He should have felt nothing but joy in seeing his family again, but a lingering uncertainty clouded his thoughts.

A soft breeze suddenly brushed across his face, bringing a fleeting sense of calm. Itachi closed his eyes for a moment, inhaling the familiar, comforting scent of Konoha in the air.

His memories were fragmented. He vividly recalled his final battle with Sasuke and the sensation of his consciousness being sealed into the Totsuka Blade. Time had no meaning in that limbo, and now, inexplicably, he was back here, standing on the roof of his childhood home, in the body of a five-year-old.

"I don't know what force brought me back... but I can't waste this chance."

His eyes traced the village skyline, taking in the peaceful streets below. The war had ended only a year ago, and the people of Konoha were beginning to feel relief. But peace was fragile. In just a few months, Konoha would be plunged into chaos during the Nine-Tails' attack.

"The Kyuubi..." Itachi muttered, narrowing his eyes as he recalled the event that would forever alter the village. He knew the Nine-Tails attack wasn't a natural disaster—it had been orchestrated by a masked man claiming to be Uchiha Madara.

"Madara..." Itachi frowned. The masked man had controlled the Kyuubi using the Sharingan, further deepening the mistrust between the Uchiha clan and Konoha's leadership. That event had set off a chain reaction, eventually leading to the Uchiha massacre.

But what if Itachi could prevent the Kyuubi's attack? Could he stop the events that followed?

"If I can stop the Nine-Tails, I can change everything... but I don't have the power yet."

He clenched his fists. At five years old, even with his early activation of the Sharingan, he wasn't strong enough to face someone as dangerous as the masked man.

"The attack will happen on October 10th... just a few months from now," he whispered.

Itachi thought of Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage—the man who would sacrifice his life to seal the Nine-Tails inside his newborn son, Naruto Uzumaki. Itachi had met Minato only a few times at this age, but his respect for the Hokage ran deep. Minato was a legend, surpassing even the Sannin, and his sacrifice had ensured Konoha's survival.

"If I could warn the Fourth Hokage... maybe I could stop it all. But doing that would expose the fact that I know the future." Itachi hesitated, realizing that revealing too much could bring dangerous attention his way. Still, staying silent meant dooming Konoha to repeat its tragic history.

His thoughts shifted to his parents. Could he confide in them?

"No... I've already been acting strangely around them." Itachi recalled the moments of concern he had already caused. If he told Fugaku or Mikoto about his rebirth, they might start asking questions he wasn't ready to answer.

He needed to be careful, especially around Fugaku, who had his own suspicions about Konoha's leadership.

"How do I warn the Fourth Hokage without revealing too much?" Itachi thought, tapping his chin. Then, an idea struck him.

"My mother was classmates with Kushina Uzumaki at the Academy," he recalled. "Maybe I can learn something from her."

With a plan forming in his mind, Itachi hopped down from the roof, landing silently in front of the house. He headed toward his parents' room, determined to find a way to protect the future without losing the trust of his family.

---

"Mother!"

Itachi stepped into the room to find Mikoto packing clothes she had prepared for Sasuke before his birth. She turned when she heard him, offering a soft smile.

"Have you finished cleaning? Thank you for your hard work," she said warmly.

At five years old, Itachi should still be carefree, but even at this young age, he had taken on many responsibilities to help his parents, Fugaku and Mikoto.

Itachi walked up to Mikoto and sat beside her. "How are you feeling, Mom?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Much better," she replied, her gaze softening as she looked at her son. "Is there something on your mind?"

Itachi blinked in surprise at her intuition. He hadn't spoken yet, but his mother already sensed his unease. Parents always knew.

Realizing there was no point in hiding it, he asked directly, "Mom, what kind of person is Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage?"

Mikoto paused, processing the question. "Why are you asking about him all of a sudden?" she asked, her voice curious.

"I saw him from a distance when I was on the roof," Itachi explained thoughtfully. "You mentioned that you were classmates in the Academy, and I think he came to our house when I was younger. Among the Hokage, he's the only one from a civilian background. How did he achieve such a position?"

His curiosity was genuine, though beneath it was a deeper question. He had heard many stories of the legendary Fourth Hokage. Even after Minato's death, his reputation endured.

Mikoto smiled fondly as she considered her response. "Minato was... remarkable in many ways."

"He must have excelled at the Academy, right?" Itachi prompted.

"Not exactly," Mikoto chuckled. "His grades were good, but not extraordinary."

Itachi blinked in surprise. "That's not what I expected."

"Minato kept a low profile in school," Mikoto continued. "In hindsight, I think he was holding back on purpose."

Itachi furrowed his brow. "That's... unusual."

"It was," Mikoto agreed. "But he was always kind, approachable. Everyone in our class liked him."

Itachi was caught off guard by this. That wasn't what he expected from someone who would become Hokage.

"Even back then, his dream was to protect the village and everyone in it," Mikoto explained. "And in time, he did just that."

Itachi nodded. Minato had turned the tide of the Third Great Ninja War and earned the title "Yellow Flash." During the Kyuubi attack, he had made the ultimate sacrifice to save Konoha.

"He worked hard to achieve his dream, and because of his heart for the village, everyone supported him," Mikoto continued. "He may not have been the strongest, but his care for others was unmatched."

Hearing his mother's praise, Itachi considered two possibilities: either Minato was a genius with a noble heart, or he had been hiding his true nature. Itachi preferred to believe the first.

"You said everyone supported him for Hokage?" Itachi asked. "But didn't Father almost compete for the title? Weren't they rivals?"

Itachi was probing for Minato's attitude toward the Uchiha clan.

Mikoto nodded. "Your father didn't support Minato's candidacy at first, but over time, he realized it was better for the Uchiha."

"Why?" Itachi pressed.

"Both your father and Minato wanted to change things," Mikoto said carefully. "But it's not easy, given the current circumstances."

Itachi understood. Minato, despite his good intentions, couldn't fully act on them due to the influence of the Third Hokage and the elders.

"I see," Itachi said, his mind racing. "I'd like to meet him someday."

Mikoto smiled warmly. "I'm sure you will. And when you do, I think you'll like him."

Itachi nodded, but in his heart, he was already planning.

---

He now understood that the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, had a different perspective on the Uchiha clan than the rest of Konoha's leadership. His father had even mentioned this to his mother.

If Itachi could convey the information he had from the future to the Fourth Hokage, he could change their family's fate. The Kyuubi attack might be prevented, and the village could avoid massive casualties. Perhaps, the future of the Uchiha clan itself could be rewritten.

Rebirth was a strange concept, but Itachi believed if anyone could help, it would be Minato Namikaze.

"Mom, you should rest for now. I'll take care of Sasuke," Itachi said, standing up.

Mikoto shook her head gently. "I'm feeling much better. Let me handle this."

Itachi's seriousness made her pause, though. He was only five years old, yet his demeanor was far beyond his age.

"Mom, please trust me," Itachi said, his face growing more resolute. "I may not be able to protect the village and the clan like the Fourth Hokage or Father, but at least, I can protect you and Sasuke."

His expression softened as he added, "Your health hasn't fully recovered. As a member of the Uchiha, it's my responsibility to help ease your burdens."

Mikoto smiled warmly. "Itachi, you're such a kind boy. Sasuke's lucky to have you as his brother."

Unable to argue with his sincerity, Mikoto nodded, giving in.

---

After leaving his parents' room, Itachi went to Sasuke's cradle. His baby brother was peacefully asleep, a faint smile on his face as though dreaming of something pleasant.

Itachi sighed. **How do I meet the Hokage without drawing attention?**

Although he could easily approach the Hokage building, Itachi wasn't a ninja yet. He had no formal right to request an audience with Minato Namikaze. Worse, any move to contact the Hokage would likely attract the attention of Konoha's higher-ups, which could be dangerous.

He also couldn't visit the Hokage's home. Kushina, still the Jinchuuriki of the Nine-Tails, was under constant surveillance by the Anbu during her pregnancy. With his current abilities, Itachi knew he couldn't reach the Fourth Hokage without alerting them.

**Wait... Anbu...**

A thought suddenly struck him. **Shisui.**

Uchiha Shisui, his friend and mentor, had recently joined the Anbu. If anyone could help him, it was Shisui.

Back in his previous life, Shisui had sacrificed himself to prevent a coup, giving Itachi his left eye to safeguard Konoha. Danzo had cornered Shisui, coveting his Kotoamatsukami, forcing him to commit suicide. It was Shisui's death that had led Itachi to awaken the Mangekyo Sharingan.

Shisui was more than just a friend; he was the one who had taught Itachi the meaning of true loyalty to the village. Even now, Itachi trusted him completely.

**Shisui could help me reach the Fourth Hokage without alarming the other village leaders. And this time... I won't let him fall into Danzo's hands.**

Itachi felt his resolve harden, but he didn't rush out immediately. Sasuke still needed care, and he knew Shisui would be busy with his Anbu duties. There was still time before Madara made his move, and Itachi could afford to be patient.

---

That evening, at dinner, Fugaku returned home from his duties. As the family sat down together, Mikoto held Sasuke, who had just been fed.

Fugaku suddenly stood and left the room, returning moments later with a form in hand. He placed it on the table in front of Itachi.

"The Academy has begun enrolling new students," Fugaku said, his voice firm. "You're now old enough to attend. This is the admission form. Fill it out and give it to me in the morning."

He paused, watching Itachi carefully. "In half a month, they'll hold a test for incoming students. I don't expect you'll have any trouble with it."

Mikoto smiled. "It's hard to believe Itachi is already old enough for the Academy."

Itachi glanced at the form, lips pursed. **The Academy...**

Fugaku noticed his hesitation. "Is there something wrong?" he asked.

Itachi met his father's gaze. "Father, I don't want to attend the Academy."

Fugaku's eyes narrowed. "You don't want to become a ninja?"

Itachi shook his head. "No, I do. But I believe the Academy's curriculum isn't necessary for me. I can train more efficiently at home."

Fugaku's expression remained unreadable as Itachi continued. "I don't want to waste time with lessons that are too basic. I could use that time to train in our clan's techniques."

To a five-year-old, the Academy's teachings might have seemed reasonable, but for Itachi—who had lived through these years once before—the courses felt far too simple. He had much bigger plans, and he needed to become stronger quickly.

Fugaku remained silent, clearly processing his son's unexpected request. Itachi had already awakened the Sharingan that morning, and the Academy wouldn't teach him how to use it. Perhaps he was right—perhaps, in this case, home training would benefit him more.

Before Fugaku could respond, Mikoto spoke up. "Itachi, you're very talented, but there's more to the Academy than just learning how to be a ninja."

Her voice was gentle as she continued, "You'll make friends, learn teamwork, and develop skills you can't learn at home."

---

**"Practice diligently, Itachi. Your mom only hopes that you'll have a happy childhood and make some good friends, like other children your age."**

Mikoto gazed at her son with gentle eyes. Despite being married to the leader of the Uchiha clan, she didn't want Itachi to carry the same burdens as Fugaku, who had to shoulder responsibilities from a young age. Itachi was so mature, far beyond his years, but Mikoto sensed that he was a bit too withdrawn.

Her hope wasn't for Itachi to become some prodigy. Instead, she wanted him to experience the joys of childhood, to have friends he could count on. That's why she wanted him to attend the Academy, not expecting him to have extraordinary results, but simply to enjoy life like a normal child.

**"Mom, I..."** Itachi hesitated, seeing the hope in Mikoto's eyes.

He had been granted a rare second chance at life—an opportunity to change the fate of his clan and the village. But with this opportunity came an immense pressure. He knew what was to come. The Nine-Tails attack, the Uchiha massacre, Sasuke's loneliness—all of these events haunted him.

If he wanted to prevent these tragedies, he had to grow stronger quickly. Strength would allow him to influence the future, to protect his family and the village without being powerless. But how could he explain that to his mother?

Taking a deep breath, Itachi gathered his resolve. **"Mom, I can make friends anywhere, but I truly don't want to go to the Academy. Please understand."**

Mikoto frowned, concerned by her son's refusal. She wanted to persuade him, but before she could respond, Fugaku, who had been silent, finally spoke up.

**"So, you think you no longer need the Academy's guidance?"** Fugaku asked, his voice calm but firm.

Itachi shook his head. **"No, father, that's not what I meant."**

Fugaku looked at Itachi with piercing eyes, testing him. **"The Academy was founded by our Hokage's ancestors. For generations, they've trained some of the finest shinobi. Are you saying you're beyond that now?"**

Itachi kept his gaze steady. **"I just believe that, given my current knowledge and abilities, the Academy's methods might not suit me."**

The truth was that Itachi had already surpassed the basic teachings of the Academy. His experiences, knowledge of ninjutsu, and combat strategy were far beyond what the Academy could teach him. The time spent repeating those lessons would feel like wasting precious moments.

Fugaku studied his son for a moment, then spoke. **"I see. If that's what you truly believe, then prove it to me."**

Itachi's eyes narrowed. **"How should I prove it?"**

**"You'll have to show me your strength. There are still two weeks before the Academy's entrance exam. If you can defeat a fresh graduate from the Academy by then, I'll allow you to skip the Academy and train within the clan. How does that sound?"** Fugaku said, crossing his arms.

Itachi blinked, weighing the challenge.

The newly graduated shinobi of the Uchiha clan were no ordinary students. They were among the most talented, many already possessing the Sharingan. But Itachi, despite his young age, had already unlocked his Sharingan earlier that day. Still, using it in a real battle drained significant chakra, and his current body wasn't fully developed.

Fugaku waited for his son's response, but Mikoto, sensing the difficulty of the challenge, interjected. **"Fugaku, Itachi is only five... Isn't this a bit much for him?"**

But Itachi raised his head, his eyes burning with determination. **"Father, I accept. I'll defeat whoever you choose before the Academy exam."**

Fugaku gave a small nod, acknowledging his son's resolve. **"Very well. But if you fail, you will attend the Academy, no questions asked."**

**"Understood,"** Itachi replied without hesitation.

The tension at the table lingered even after the decision was made, and Mikoto couldn't help but feel worried.

---

**That night, in Fugaku and Mikoto's room...**

Fugaku sat on the bed, arms crossed as Mikoto entered after putting Sasuke to sleep. She closed the door quietly behind her, her brow furrowed in concern.

**"Itachi has something heavy weighing on his heart, doesn't he?"** Mikoto asked, sitting beside Fugaku.

**"Yes,"** Fugaku responded without looking up. **"He's been different since he was little. He carries too much on his shoulders, more than any child his age should."**

Mikoto sighed. **"Did we put too much pressure on him? I'm worried that this challenge you set... isn't it adding more stress on him?"**

Fugaku chuckled, surprising Mikoto. His expression softened, showing a rare glimpse of humor. **"I've heard it said that a woman's intelligence diminishes after having children... seems there's some truth to it."**

Mikoto rolled her eyes. **"Very funny."**

**"Listen,"** Fugaku continued, his tone turning serious again. **"I gave him that challenge knowing it's nearly impossible for him to win. The point is for him to experience failure."**

Mikoto looked at him, puzzled. **"Failure?"**

**"Yes,"** Fugaku explained. **"Itachi's never been one to follow the path of others. He needs to understand that there are some things in this world that cannot be achieved through sheer will or talent alone."**

**"And you think losing this fight will teach him that?"**

**"If he fails, he'll have to attend the Academy, like you and I want him to. But if he wins... then perhaps he truly is capable of more than I give him credit for."**

Mikoto fell silent, realizing Fugaku's logic. As much as she wanted to shield Itachi from hardship, she also knew that life as a shinobi would only get harder. And if Itachi was to carry the burden of the Uchiha clan, he needed to learn that failure was sometimes inevitable.

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