For the benefit of the Uchiha clan, Fugaku argued passionately. If the clan didn't make their position clear now, such challenges might only multiply in the future.
After stating that Shisui was too young to effectively counter Sora, Fugaku continued, "Yondaime, we are the Uchiha of Konoha. We played a crucial role in the Third Shinobi War. We don't ask for special recognition from you, as this was simply our duty as members of Konoha."
His voice grew solemn. "However, we lost many shinobi not long after the war ended. To speak frankly, quite a few ninjas from our clan were used as cannon fodder by Sora against the Kirigakure shinobi. No one can prove whether Sora was deliberately targeting the Uchiha clan then, but my clansmen have strong opinions about him."
Fugaku's eyes showed his frustration. "I understand why you've made this decision, Yondaime, but my people are still grieving their losses. How can they accept such a change now? I urge you to reconsider and withdraw this plan!"
Fugaku could only appeal to their contributions during the previous war. He had no other leverage.
Minato understood Fugaku's difficulties and discomfort. Though he held the title of Fourth Hokage, many decisions remained beyond his control.
The current leadership of Konoha included not only the retired Sarutobi Hiruzen but also Danzo, Utatane Koharu, and Mitokado Homura. Despite Hiruzen's retirement, many of Minato's decisions still required the Third Hokage's approval.
Being Hokage exhausted Minato. He had originally opposed creating the Konoha Defense Force, but Hiruzen and Danzo had forced his hand. He'd tried to prevent Sora from leading the new department, but no one listened. In the end, he could only secure the deputy leader position for an ally.
Minato knew well how much the Uchiha had contributed during the war. He recognized how inappropriate it was to establish a new department specifically to check the Uchiha clan's power. But the decision had been made and couldn't be changed.
"The establishment of this new department is inevitable," Minato said solemnly. "There's no possibility of changing that. Clan Leader Fugaku, I understand your concerns. I know how strong Sora is and the conflict between your clan and him. That's why my Anbu shinobi will also join the new department and will follow Shisui's orders."
Minato's eyes reflected his sincerity. "There are many things beyond our control that prevent us from acting as we wish... But I promise you that the situation for the Uchiha clan will improve with time. Clan Leader Fugaku, trust me on this."
Fugaku's expression remained uncertain.
Minato's words made it clear this wasn't his decision alone. The responsibility lay with Danzo and Sarutobi Hiruzen. Minato had little say in the matter.
Yet Minato's promise carried the weight of the Fourth Hokage's office. Though he couldn't help now, that didn't mean he wouldn't gain more authority later. If Minato fully assumed the Hokage's powers, he would help the Uchiha overcome their current difficulties.
Fugaku needed to make a choice. Should the Uchiha clan's future be tied to Namikaze Minato?
Fugaku studied Minato carefully. The man was humble, kind-hearted, and intelligent. Though gentle in personality, he wasn't soft—his determination had led to impressive achievements during troubled times.
Fugaku actually thought highly of Minato. That's why when Minato first became Hokage and came to visit, Fugaku had eagerly greeted him and explained the Uchiha clan's desire to rebuild trust with Konoha.
But this current situation showed that Minato's position as Hokage wasn't yet secure. He couldn't make decisions on many important matters.
In truth, Fugaku had no other options. Only Minato among Konoha's leadership showed any kindness toward the Uchiha.
Fugaku's father, Uchiha Masaki, had once believed in Sarutobi Hiruzen's goodwill toward the Uchiha clan, but he'd been wrong. Hiruzen sought balance above all—his goodwill existed only because the Uchiha were needed for battle.
During the middle and late stages of the war, Fugaku couldn't believe Sora had acted against the Uchiha without Hiruzen's authorization.
Fugaku took a deep breath. This seemed to be the only path: connecting the Uchiha clan closely with Namikaze Minato.
Minato was still young and could serve as Hokage for many more years. Meanwhile, Hiruzen, Danzo, and the other Konoha elders were already old. Minato's future looked promising.
"Yondaime," Fugaku said seriously, "I agree to this, but please understand one thing. I'm agreeing only because you ask it of me. From now on, as long as you need us, the Uchiha clan will absolutely follow your orders and stand firmly at your side."
His gaze was steady. "I hope that you will look after the Uchiha clan in the future. We will always be Konoha's Uchiha!"
With these words, Fugaku officially aligned himself with Namikaze Minato.
Hearing Fugaku's declaration, Minato smiled genuinely. "I will definitely honor that commitment. Thank you for your understanding, Clan Leader Fugaku. I won't disturb your rest any longer—I'll take my leave now."
Minato stood to depart.
Fugaku and Shisui also rose to see him off.
After Minato had gone, Fugaku looked at Shisui beside him and said, "Shisui, come with me. We need to talk."
Shisui nodded.
The two sat facing each other on tatami mats.
Fugaku looked at Shisui and sighed. "Shisui, you must see that this new Konoha Defense Force exists to target our Uchiha clan. Even as deputy leader, your position there won't be easy."
Shisui's eyes were determined. "I know, but I'm prepared. The Yondaime faces his own difficulties. He truly hopes to improve relations between us, so I'm willing to work hard for both our clan and the village!"
Hearing Shisui's answer, Fugaku felt not happiness but helplessness.
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