Return (3)

The next day in the Hokage's office, the Third Hokage sat at his desk, his eyes heavy with exhaustion. He hadn't slept a wink, his mind racing with the implications of Mirai's return and the confrontation they'd had. The reports, the worries about Naruto, and the pressure of leadership weighed heavily on him. He sighed deeply, rubbing his temples, trying to muster the energy to face another challenging day.

The door to his office suddenly slammed open, jolting Hiruzen from his thoughts. Shimura Danzo stormed in, his presence as imposing and shadowy as ever. His single visible eye glinted with malice, and his cane thudded against the floor with each step.

"Hiruzen!" Danzo's voice was harsh, filled with barely contained fury. "How could you allow that man to return and approach the Jinchuriki? Namikaze Mirai is a threat! He's dangerous and unpredictable!"

Hiruzen raised a weary hand, signaling for calm, but Danzo continued unabated.

"Hiruzen, the village has no need of Mirai in these peaceful times." Danzo insisted. "His presence is a disruption, a reminder of the past conflicts. He belongs to an era of war, not peace. We cannot afford to have him disrupting the fragile balance we've maintained."

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing as he regarded his old friend and rival. "Mirai is Minato's brother and Naruto's uncle. He has a right to be here and to be part of Naruto's life." He muttered words he himself wasn't convinced by.

Danzo scoffed, his expression darkening further. "A right? His presence alone is a liability and ruined all your plans concerning the Jinchuriki's upbringing. He vanished for three years without a trace, and now he returns with no explanation. Who knows what alliances he's formed or what his true intentions are?"

"Danzo!" Hiruzen interrupted, his voice gaining strength despite his fatigue, "We will monitor Mirai closely, but we will not treat him like an enemy."

Danzo slammed his cane against the floor in frustration, glaring sharply. "You're being naive and soft Hiruzen! We need to control this situation before it spirals out of hand. Restrict his movements, and if necessary, detain him. We cannot take any chances."

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, meeting Danzo's gaze steadily.

Seeing his friend unmoved, Danzo's expression did not soften. "Mark my words, Hiruzen. This decision will come back to haunt you. We must be prepared for any eventuality."

With that, Danzo turned on his heel and stormed out of the office, leaving Hiruzen alone once more. The Third Hokage sighed heavily, feeling the weight of his years and the enormity of his responsibilities more acutely than ever.

…

As the two old friends argued, Mirai had taken Naruto to a place that held warm memories for him, 'Ichiraku Ramen'. The small ramen stand was not only a familiar and comforting spot for Naruto but also a place that brought back fond memories for Mirai. He had spent many evenings here with his brother Minato and sister-in-law Kushina, sharing meals and laughter.

Naruto's eyes lit up as they approached the stand. "Uncle Mirai, this place is the best! They have the most amazing ramen!" he exclaimed, his face bright with excitement.

Mirai smiled, a nostalgic smile plastered on his face. "I know, Naruto."

They took their seats at the counter, and Teuchi, the owner, greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome Naruto! And who's this with you?"

Naruto beamed. "This is my uncle Mirai. He just came back to the village."

Teuchi's eyes widened in recognition, and he gave Mirai a respectful nod. "Welcome back, Namikaze-san. It's an honor to have you here. What can I get for you both today?"

"I'll have the miso ramen." Mirai said, looking down at Naruto with a fond smile. "And Naruto, order whatever you like."

Naruto looked up at Mirai, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Uncle Mirai, can I have as much ramen as I want?"

Mirai chuckled, his heart warming at the sight of Naruto's genuine happiness. "Of course, Naruto. Eat as much as you like."

Naruto's face lit up even more, if that was possible. "Really? Thanks Uncle Mirai! Then, I'll have the usual extra large miso ramen."

Immediately Teuchi set to work and their bowls of steaming ramen were soon placed in front of them, and Naruto wasted no time digging in. Mirai followed suit.

"Uncle Mirai?" Naruto said between mouthfuls, "Why did you leave for so long? Where did you go?"

Mirai paused, his chopsticks hovering over his bowl. The question was innocent, but the answer was complex. He took a deep breath. "I had important things to take care of, Naruto. Things that took me far away from the village. But I'm back now, and I promise I won't leave you again."

Naruto's eyes shone with relief. "Really? You'll stay with me?"

Mirai nodded, placing a hand on Naruto's head. "Really. I'll stay, and I'll make sure you're taken care of."

As they left the ramen stand and walked through the village, the whispers of the villagers followed them, but Mirai's protective presence silenced any ill words. The villagers were curious and cautious, wondering about the man who had appeared out of nowhere to stand by the side of the boy many of them had shunned.

But for Mirai and Naruto, the world felt a little brighter, the path ahead a little clearer. They had each other, and for now, that was enough.