Trio’s Journey: Second Chance

{Chapter Eight}

"Discussion of the Uzumaki Clan!"

Kyosuke sat at the head of the small wooden table in their modest apartment, his usual calm demeanor tinged with a hint of determination

To his right sat Shin, his posture relaxed but his sharp eyes alert

On Kyosuke's left was Kenji, arms crossed, radiating a sense of steady discipline

Naruto, seated next to Kenji, leaned forward slightly, his expression confused yet eager to understand

Kyosuke cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention

"Alright, let's get straight to the point. We've been here in Konoha for some time now, and it's becoming clear to me that there's something missing — something that shouldn't be ignored anymore." Kyosuke said, his tone serious

Shin nodded, his gaze serious

"The Uzumaki Clan." Shin said

Naruto blinked, tilting his head

"Wait… what about the Uzumaki Clan? Aren't we all, you know, it?" Naruto asked

Kenji sighed, shaking his head

"Naruto, we're not the Uzumaki Clan. We're just the remnants. The Uzumaki were once a proud and powerful clan, with their own village — Uzushiogakure. But after its destruction, our people scattered. We're some of the few survivors." Kenji explained

Naruto's eyes widened

"What? Our clan had a whole village? Why didn't anyone tell me about this before?" Naruto said out loud

Kyosuke's expression softened

"Because no one in Konoha really talks about it. The Uzumaki name has almost faded from memory here. That's part of the problem." Kyosuke replied

Shin leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table

"That's why we're having this conversation. We need to figure out how to bring the Uzumaki Clan back — how to make it a recognized part of this village." Shin added

Naruto frowned, his hands gripping the edge of the table

"But… how do we do that? It's just us four. How can we rebuild a whole clan?" Naruto asked, genuinely confused

Kenji's tone was firm but patient

"It starts with acknowledgment. The Uzumaki have a legacy — our sealing techniques, our resilience, our contributions to the alliance with Konoha. Even if it's just the four of us, we have the right to claim that legacy and make it known." Kenji said, staring at Naruto as he spoke

Kyosuke nodded

"Exactly. And for that, we need the support of the Hokage. We need to approach Lord Hiruzen and present our case. If we can convince him, we can take the first steps toward restoring the Uzumaki name in Konoha." Kyosuke said

Naruto scratched his head, still looking uncertain

"But… why does it matter so much? I mean, we're already here in the village. Isn't that enough?" Naruto asked

Shin spoke up, his voice calm but resolute

"It's about more than just being here, Naruto. It's about identity. Right now, we're seen as individuals — four people with no real connection to the village's clans. But if we reestablish the Uzumaki Clan, we create a foundation. A place where future generations of Uzumaki can belong." Shin explained thoroughly

"Not to mention, the Uzumaki name deserves respect. Our clan sacrificed a lot for Konoha. It's time that history is acknowledged and preserved." Kenji added

Naruto looked down at the table, his expression thoughtful

"I never really thought about it like that. I always just thought of myself as… well, me. But you're saying we're part of something bigger?" Naruto said as he soaked in the information and explanation from his brothers

Kyosuke smiled faintly

"That's right. And it's up to us to ensure that 'something bigger' doesn't disappear forever." Kyosuke said

Naruto sat up straighter, determination flickering in his eyes

"Okay. I'm in. So… how do we talk to the Hokage about this?" Naruto asked

Shin glanced at Kyosuke

"That's the next step, isn't it?" Shin asked as well

Kyosuke nodded

"Yes. We'll need to approach this carefully. The Hokage is a busy man, and this isn't something we can just blurt out. We need to have a plan — a clear argument for why recognizing the Uzumaki Clan is important, not just for us, but for Konoha." Kyosuke said

Kenji leaned back, his arms still crossed

"We also need to be prepared for resistance. Not everyone in the village will be happy about this. Some might see it as unnecessary, or even a threat to the current balance of power." Kenji added, remembering the hatred from the villagers and some resentment from ninja clans

Naruto frowned

"Why would they think that? We're not trying to take over or anything!" Naruto asked out loud

Kyosuke sighed

"It's not about what we're trying to do — it's about perception. That's why we need to be respectful, clear, and confident in our approach." Kyosuke explained

Shin nodded

"We'll present it as a way to strengthen the village. The Uzumaki were known for their sealing techniques, their knowledge, and their loyalty. Reestablishing the clan would benefit Konoha in the long run." Shin added

Naruto grinned

"And I can tell them how awesome we are! That'll help, right?" Naruto said

Kenji rolled his eyes, though there was a hint of a smile on his face.m

"Maybe leave that part to Kyosuke." Kenji said

Kyosuke chuckled

"Naruto's enthusiasm might not be such a bad thing. But yes, I'll take the lead when we meet with the Hokage. Shin and Kenji, I'll need your support to back up our points. And Naruto… just try not to interrupt too much." Kyosuke agreed

Naruto gave a mock salute

"Got it! I'll be on my best behavior." Naruto said

Kyosuke leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply as the conversation reached a natural pause

The room was heavy with thought, the air charged with anticipation

After a moment of silence, Shin spoke up, his tone measured and serious

"If we do manage to convince Lord Hiruzen to recognize the Uzumaki Clan, there's another important question we need to address: Who would be the clan head?" Shin said, adding another issue to think of

Naruto blinked, leaning forward

"Wait, what? Clan head? Why do we need one of those? Can't we just, you know… all be equals or something?" Naruto asked, slightly confused

Kenji shook his head

"That's not how it works, Naruto. Every clan has a leader — a head who represents them, who handles their responsibilities and speaks on their behalf. It's a tradition, and more importantly, it's a necessity if we want to be taken seriously." Kenji explained

Shin nodded

"He's right. Without a clear leader, it'll just look like we're disorganized or unsure of ourselves. If we want the Hokage and the rest of the village to take us seriously, we need to establish a proper structure for our clan." Shin added

Naruto scratched the back of his head, frowning

"Okay, but… who's supposed to be the clan head? I mean, there's only four of us." Naruto said

The room grew quiet as the brothers exchanged glances

Finally, Kyosuke broke the silence

"Well, let's think about it logically. It has to be someone who can handle the responsibility— someone who can represent the clan with strength, wisdom, and respect." Kyosuke suggested

Shin smirked faintly

"Well, that narrows it down to three of us already." Shin said half jokingly and half serious

Naruto looked confused

"Huh? What do you mean?" Naruto asked

Kenji chuckled, his voice dry

"Naruto, you're great, but you're not exactly… diplomatic. Clan politics require patience and tact — two things you're still working on." Kenji said nicely

Naruto crossed his arms, pouting

"Hey! I could totally do it! I mean… probably." Naruto said as he sat back down

Kyosuke smiled reassuringly

"It's not about who's better or worse, Naruto. It's about what each of us brings to the table. And honestly… I don't think it should be you— not yet, anyway. You're still learning about what it means to be an Uzumaki." Kyosuke explained

Naruto huffed, but he eventually nodded

"Fine, fine. I guess I get it. But that still leaves you three." Naruto said

Shin leaned forward, resting his arms on the table

"It's not me either. I'm good with strategy and planning, but I'm not exactly the 'leadership' type. I'd rather work behind the scenes." Shin said

Kenji chimed in, his voice firm

"Same here. I can enforce rules, keep things in order, and make sure we stay disciplined. But being the face of the clan? That's not my strength." Kenji added

Naruto's eyes widened as he realized what they were implying

"Wait a second… are you guys saying it should be Kyosuke?" Naruto asked in realization

Shin and Kenji exchanged a glance before nodding in unison

"Kyosuke's the best choice." Shin said simply

"He's calm, level-headed, and knows how to handle people. He's already taken on a leadership role with us, whether he realizes it or not. Plus, he's got the vision to rebuild our clan and the patience to see it through." Kenji elaborated

Naruto looked at Kyosuke in shock

"Whoa… you guys really think he should be the clan head?" Naruto asked

Kyosuke raised his hands, his expression both surprised and cautious

"Hold on. I never said I wanted to be the clan head. This isn't something I take lightly." Kyosuke said

Shin's gaze softened

"We know, Kyosuke. That's why you're the right person for the job. You don't seek power for the sake of it, and you care about doing what's best for all of us — not just yourself." Shin said

Kenji nodded in agreement

"If anyone can guide the Uzumaki Clan back to its rightful place, it's you." Kenji said

Naruto tilted his head, studying Kyosuke thoughtfully

"You know… they're kinda right. You've already been looking out for us, teaching us, and making plans for the future. It makes sense." Naruto added

Kyosuke sighed, running a hand through his hair

"I appreciate the confidence, but this is a huge responsibility. If I take on this role, it won't just be for us — it'll be for the future of the Uzumaki Clan. I want to make sure we're doing this for the right reasons." Kyosuke said

Shin leaned back, his expression calm but firm

"That's exactly why it should be you. You don't just think about the now — you think about the future. And that's what a true clan head needs to do." Shin said

After a long pause, Kyosuke nodded slowly

"Alright. If you're all sure about this… I'll take on the role. But this isn't just about me. We're in this together, every step of the way." Kyosuke said

Naruto grinned, pumping his fist in the air

"Yeah! Uzumaki Clan, here we come!" Naruto shouted

Kenji smirked, shaking his head

"Calm down, Naruto. We still have a lot to do before we even bring this up to the Hokage." Kenji said

Kyosuke nodded

"Exactly. For now, let's focus on the plan. Once we've graduated from the academy and proven ourselves, we'll revisit this. By then, we'll be in a stronger position to make our case." Kyosuke said

Shin stood, stretching

"Sounds like a plan. Let's make it count." Shin agreed

…

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…

Naruto leaned forward on the table, a mischievous grin plastered across his face

"So, when are you guys gonna tell me about Tenten, Sakura, and Ino, huh?" Naruto said

Kyosuke, Shin, and Kenji froze, their gazes snapping toward Naruto in unison

The air in the room became heavy with a mix of surprise and awkwardness

Kyosuke cleared his throat, trying to maintain his composure

"Naruto… what are you talking about?" Kyosuke asked

"Don't play dumb! Kenji, you've been sneaking off to spar with Tenten, haven't you? You've been spending a lot of time with her." Naruto said, pointing at Kenji first

Kenji's eye twitched, and he frowned

"Sparring isn't sneaking off. She's just skilled with weapons, and I wanted to learn from her." Kenji explained

Naruto smirked knowingly

"Uh-huh. Sure. And that's why you've been training with her every other day?" Naruto said with a mischievous grin

Before Kenji could reply, Naruto turned to Shin

"And you, Shin! Don't think I haven't noticed you talking to Sakura after class. You're always so calm and cool around her, but I see through you." Naruto shouted, his tone filled with jealousy

Shin's face flushed slightly, and he crossed his arms defensively

"Sakura's my classmate, Naruto. We've had a few conversations, but that's it." Shin explained

Naruto wasn't buying it

"Yeah, right. You've had more conversations with her in a week than I've had in a month!" Naruto said

Finally, Naruto turned to Kyosuke, a mischievous glint in his eyes

"And Kyosuke… oh man, don't even get me started on you and Ino! You two were practically glued to each other at that Yamanaka party. Everyone saw it! You two have been the talk in the school!" Naruto said

Kyosuke's normally calm demeanor cracked, and he rubbed the back of his neck, visibly flustered

"Ino was just being a good host and showing me around. Nothing more than that." Kyosuke explained as he face the other way

Naruto leaned back in his chair, arms crossed

"Yeah, keep telling yourselves that. But don't forget, I'm not giving up on Sakura! She's gonna realize I'm the best someday, and none of you can stop me!" Naruto said out loud as he glanced back at Shin

Kenji rolled his eyes

"Naruto, Sakura barely gives you the time of day. Maybe you should focus on building some mutual respect first." Kenji suggested

Naruto's grin faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered

"Hey, don't count me out! You'll see! And besides, at least I'm honest about my feelings. You guys are all dodging the question." Naruto said

Shin sighed, shaking his head

"Naruto, there's nothing to dodge. You're blowing this way out of proportion." Shin said

Naruto smirked

"Am I? Or are you all just too scared to admit I'm right?" Naruto said

Kenji, ever the quick thinker, decided to turn the tables

He leaned forward with a sly smirk

"You know, Naruto, instead of chasing Sakura all the time, maybe you should think about someone who might actually like you." Kenji said

Naruto blinked, completely caught off guard

"Huh? What are you talking about?" Naruto asked

Shin chimed in, his tone calm but teasing

"Come on, Naruto. You really haven't noticed? There's someone who's always looking out for you, cheering you on — even when nobody else does." Shin added

Naruto frowned, his face scrunched in thought

"Looking out for me? Cheering me on? Who are you talking about?" Naruto asked, his annoyance grew

Kyosuke couldn't help but smile at how completely oblivious Naruto was

"It's someone who actually sees the good in you, Naruto. Someone who admires your determination and energy." Kyosuke added more fuel into the fire

Naruto stared at them, clearly puzzled

"What? Who is it? Just tell me already!" He shouted

Kenji shrugged, leaning back in his chair

"You'll figure it out eventually, little brother. We're not doing all the work for you." Kenji said

Naruto crossed his arms, still frowning

"I don't get it. Who cares if someone else likes me? I'm not giving up on Sakura, okay? She's the one I want!" Naruto shouted with determination

The three brothers exchanged knowing looks, a mix of amusement and exasperation flashing between them

Kyosuke sighed and shook his head

"Alright, Naruto, if that's how you feel. But maybe, just maybe, you should start paying more attention to the people around you." Kyosuke said

Naruto grumbled but waved them off

"Whatever. I'll show you. Sakura's going to notice me one day, and you'll all see." Naruto said

The brothers chuckled, deciding to let the conversation rest

Naruto's determination was admirable, even if it was completely misplaced for now

As the topic finally shifted away from their love lives, Kyosuke, Kenji, and Shin silently agreed that Naruto's obliviousness wasn't just frustrating — it was oddly endearing

It reminded them of how much growing he still had to do, and they were determined to be there for him every step of the way

Though the path ahead was uncertain, they were united in their goal: to reclaim their legacy and ensure that the Uzumaki name would never be forgotten