In rock and a hard place

4 - Midnight Visitor

Naruto POV:

I woke up sweating from my nightmare. Something was wrong; the window was open. And there he was, clad in a long black robe, standing in the corner. "I noticed you were having a nightmare, but I didn't think it would be a good idea to wake you," he said sheepishly. I stared at him, watching his every move. "My name is Itachi Uchiha." It hit me like a flash—he and Sasuke looked strikingly alike. My heart pounded in my chest, and I tried to keep my voice steady. "What do you want?" Itachi's expression remained calm, almost serene. "I have a proposition for you, Naruto. I want you to join the Akatsuki." I blinked, taken aback. "The Akatsuki? Why would I ever do that?" "It's a simple choice, really," he replied, his voice even. "This village as you know it is full of lies and deceit. The Akatsuki seeks to bring true peace, though our methods may seem extreme." I hesitated, trying to read the truth in his eyes. "And why me? Why not someone else?"
Itachi's gaze softened, just slightly. "You have suffered long enough here and for what all because the villagers hate and despise you. You have the potential to bring about real change. The Akatsuki recognizes that." I swallowed hard, considering his words. "I... I don't know. This is a lot to take in." Itachi nodded, as if he expected my hesitation. "Take your time, Naruto. Think it over carefully. But remember, the choices we make shape our destiny." With that, he turned to leave, moving towards the open window. "I'll be back for your answer." I watched him go, my mind racing with thoughts and doubts. What kind of future did I want to fight for? And could I trust Itachi's vision of peace? One thing was certain: my world had just become a lot more complicated.