big brother shina: reborn in the Uchiha clan

When Shina and Itachi returned to the Uchiha compound, the atmosphere was different. Word of their mission had already reached the clan, and members whispered among themselves as the brothers walked through the courtyard.

"They worked together flawlessly," someone murmured.

"The elders were right to test them," another added.

Fugaku met them at the entrance to the main hall, his arms crossed but his face reflecting a faint trace of pride. "The village sent a message. They were impressed by your work and grateful for the outcome."

Shina smirked. "Told you it'd be a piece of cake."

Fugaku's eyes narrowed slightly, though there was no real anger behind his gaze. "You've done well. Both of you."

Itachi bowed deeply. "Thank you, Father."

Shina, ever the laid-back one, gave a casual salute. "Glad we could make you proud, Dad."

Fugaku studied them for a moment before speaking again. "This mission is only the beginning. The two of you will be working together more often. The clan needs strong alliances, and you've proven that you are stronger together."

---

Later that evening, Shina and Itachi sat outside under the stars, reflecting on the day's events.

"You know," Shina began, leaning back on his hands, "this might be the first time I've seen Father genuinely proud of us."

Itachi nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "He's always been proud, I think. He just has a hard time showing it."

Shina chuckled. "Yeah, I guess that's his thing. Silent pride and all that. Still, it's nice to hear it for once."

There was a brief pause before Itachi spoke again. "Do you think the clan will change? That all of this—working together, protecting the village—will make a difference?"

Shina turned his head to look at his brother, surprised by the weight of his question. "Maybe," he said after a moment. "But change doesn't happen overnight, Itachi. It takes time, effort, and people who believe in it. People like you."

Itachi looked up at the sky, his expression unreadable. "And you, Shina-nii. I can't do it alone."

Shina grinned, reaching over to ruffle Itachi's hair again. "Don't worry, kiddo. I've got your back."

---

Despite the growing bond between Shina and Itachi, not everyone in the Uchiha clan was pleased with the changes. The elders began to voice concerns about the future of the clan, particularly regarding the balance of power within the village.

During a private meeting, one of the elders addressed Fugaku. "Your sons are talented, no doubt. But their loyalty must remain with the clan above all else. The village has never truly trusted us, and we cannot afford to let our guard down."

Fugaku's expression darkened. "I am well aware of the village's mistrust. But Shina and Itachi understand their responsibilities. They will not betray the clan."

Another elder spoke up, her tone cautious. "And yet, the bond they share may lead them to prioritize each other over the clan's interests. Be wary, Fugaku. Blood ties are powerful, but they can also be dangerous."

---

Unaware of the elders' growing unease, Shina and Itachi continued to train and take on missions together, earning the admiration of their peers. However, Shina couldn't shake the feeling that something was brewing beneath the surface.

One day, as they sparred in the training grounds, Shisui approached them, his usually cheerful expression uncharacteristically serious.

"Hey, you two," he said, crossing his arms. "Have you noticed anything… off lately?"

Shina paused, lowering his stance. "Off how?"

Shisui glanced around, lowering his voice. "The elders have been meeting more frequently. Talking in hushed tones, looking over their shoulders. It feels like they're planning something."

Itachi's eyes narrowed. "Do you think it has to do with the clan's relationship with the village?"

Shisui nodded. "Most likely. But whatever it is, it's big. And it's making people nervous."

Shina sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Great. Just what we needed—more politics."

Itachi's expression hardened. "We need to be careful. If something happens, we have to be ready."

Shina clapped a hand on his brother's shoulder. "Don't worry, Itachi. Whatever comes our way, we'll handle it. Together."

---