Elevate - A Naruto Fanfic

Chapter 6

It was pointed out to me on Ao3 that I had accidentally named Sasuke as the 'Last Uchiha' during this chapter and went on with it as well as mentioning 'Uchiha students.' That mistake has been rectified now and the ending of the chapter touched upon to continue with the new storyline. Sorry if that confused any of you who have taken the time to read my story. 

-K

Morning sunlight streaked across the streets of Konoha as Sakura walked between her parents. The crisp autumn air carried hints of fallen leaves and distant cooking fires, a peaceful scene marred by the tension radiating from her family. Mebuki strode on her left, chin raised high, while Kizashi walked quietly on her right, his usual jovial demeanor subdued to a forced smile.

Sakura fought to keep her face more than neutral as shinobi and civilians alike passed by, the shinobi offering polite greetings while the civilians bowed to her mother. Each gesture of respect made Mebuki's smile grow wider and more predatory. They painted such a pretty picture - a respected council member and her perfect family heading to their daughter's first day at the academy.

'What a joke,' Sakura mused, emerald eyes scanning the crowds. Every step forward reminded her of last night's violence, of her mother's words and actions. The memory of her mother's hand striking her face lingered, a phantom pain that fueled her determination. She wouldn't be controlled, wouldn't be another puppet dancing on Mebuki's strings.

The academy gates loomed ahead, a steady stream of parents and children flowing through them. Excitement buzzed in the air, young voices carrying tales of future glory and dreams of heroic deeds. Sakura wanted to laugh at their naivety. These children, with their bright eyes and innocent smiles, had no idea what they were walking into.

"Stay by my side until the teachers call you up," Mebuki commanded as they passed through the gates, her voice brooking no argument.

Sakura nodded, not trusting herself to speak. One wrong word, one hint of defiance, and she risked shattering this fragile façade they'd constructed. Better to stay silent, to watch and wait.

The academy courtyard bustled with activity. Civilian parents huddled in nervous clusters while shinobi families stood apart, their stance and bearing marking them as different even in casual clothing. Children darted between the groups, showing off practiced kata or boasting of techniques they'd already 'mastered.'

'Idiots,' Sakura thought, watching a boy demonstrate what he claimed was a perfect punch. His form was sloppy, his balance nonexistent. 'They're playing at being warriors, dreaming of glory without understanding the cost.'

Memories from her past life flickered through her mind - the weight of a knife, the metallic tang of blood, the cold calculation needed to end a life. These children thought being a ninja meant jumping through trees and throwing shiny weapons. They had no concept of violence, of the toll it takes on those who experience it. They had no concept of darkness, having lived their lives in grandeur and innocence.

A familiar voice cut through Sakura's thoughts. "Councilwoman Haruno, what a pleasure to see you here!"

Sakura resisted rolling her eyes as a man approached, one she recognized from this body's memories as Councilman Michika. He walked toward them with this air of falsity, his daughter Ami trailing behind him like an overeager puppy. The man's silk robes rustled with each step, gold threads catching the morning light - a display of wealth as subtle as a kunai to the face.

"Councilman Michika," Mebuki purred, her politician's smile sliding into place. "How wonderful to see you. And this must be young Ami? My, how she's grown."