True to his word, Grandfather Ashina convened a momentous meeting of the clan elders the very next day. To Akashi's surprise, he was invited to attend, though with a strict instruction to remain silent unless specifically asked to speak.
Many of the elder Uzumaki greeted his presence with warm approval, viewing it as an invaluable opportunity for the young heir to observe and learn the intricacies of clan governance. They saw in him the burgeoning potential of a future leader. Others, however, regarded his inclusion with thinly veiled resentment, perhaps feeling that his presence was an implicit challenge to their own wisdom and authority. Ultimately, their objections held little sway against Ashina's authority as Clan Head.
The initial discussions revolved around the ongoing recuperation efforts following the devastating invasion and the promising progress of new trade agreements. Akashi listened intently, absorbing the details of their burgeoning economic prosperity. The sheer volume of wealth poised to flow into Uzushiogakure, now that they were no longer beholden solely to Konoha, was staggering. A palpable sense of relief and even a touch of vindication filled the room as the elders realized the extent to which their exclusive ties with the Leaf had inadvertently stifled their growth.
As the meeting drew to a close, Ashina turned to Akashi, a proud smile gracing his lips. "Now, my esteemed elders, my grandson has some… innovative ideas that he wishes to share with you."
A wave of nervousness washed over Akashi as all eyes turned towards him. The weight of expectation, the potential for ridicule, pressed down on him. Yet, he knew the future of their clan hinged on the acceptance of his proposals. He had to push through his apprehension.
Again, a stark divide was evident among the elders. Some regarded him with unconcealed skepticism, their expressions conveying a clear dismissal of his input as mere childish prattling. But the elders who had witnessed his strategic acumen during the invasion held a different view. They looked at him with an almost reverent anticipation, as if he were about to unveil some profound prophecy.
Taking a deep breath, Akashi began to speak, his voice surprisingly steady despite his inner turmoil. He outlined his vision for a comprehensive shinobi academy, one that would open its doors not only to Uzumaki clan members but also to the civilian populace. This, he argued, would foster a stronger sense of community and belonging, while simultaneously bolstering their dwindling shinobi ranks. He even suggested integrating Uzumaki students into these classes, a gesture of unity that would bridge the gap between the clan and the wider village.
A low murmur of astonishment rippled through the room, quickly giving way to a lively debate. The majority of the elders voiced their enthusiastic support for the idea. Several cited Konoha's successful academy as a prime example of how such an institution could accelerate a village's recovery and long-term growth.
Sensing that questions were brewing, Akashi gestured towards Elder Tochio, recognizing the familiar face. "Respected Elder Tochio, do you have a question?"
The elderly shinobi's face softened, a hint of pleasure in his eyes at being acknowledged by the young heir, especially after Akashi's accurate recollection of his name from their brief previous encounter. "Indeed, young master. Many of us are curious as to the proposed curriculum for this… academy?"
A wave of approving nods rippled through the assembled elders. Akashi had clearly touched upon a key concern.
"My vision for the curriculum," Akashi explained, his voice gaining confidence, "involves a foundational education accessible to all, encompassing basic literacy, history, and essential survival skills. Alongside this, we would introduce fundamental chakra control exercises. As students progress and their chakra natures become apparent, we would offer specialized classes tailored to their individual aptitudes and fighting styles. This diversified approach would cultivate a more adaptable and unpredictable fighting force for Uzushiogakure."
Grandfather Ashina beamed, his pride evident in his wide smile. The elders, too, seemed largely impressed by the depth and practicality of Akashi's proposal.
Akashi had dedicated considerable thought to the academy's structure. He was determined to avoid the pitfalls he had observed in Konoha's system, particularly the heavy emphasis on ideological indoctrination over practical skill development. Team Seven's delayed understanding of basic chakra control and elemental affinities served as a stark warning. He envisioned a curriculum focused on tangible skills and strategic thinking, empowering their shinobi with a genuine understanding of their abilities.
After a period of further discussion and enthusiastic endorsements, the room gradually quieted down. Ashina rose to his feet once more. "All those in favor of establishing a shinobi academy as proposed by my grandson, please raise your hands." Almost every hand in the room shot up, the only exceptions being those few elders who still clung to a traditionalist view and perhaps harbored resentment towards
Akashi's growing influence.
"Now," Ashina announced, a hint of anticipation in his voice, "my grandson has one final matter to bring before you." All eyes turned back to Akashi, the initial skepticism largely replaced by a palpable sense of expectation.
Nice, Akashi thought. The more they perceive me as insightful, the more privy I'll become to the inner workings of the clan. "Esteemed Elders," he began, his voice resonating with a newfound authority, "for generations, the Uzumaki Clan has stood as the sole guardian of Uzushiogakure. This has been a source of immense honor, but it has also placed a significant burden upon our shoulders. We lack a strong allied clan to share in our defense and to diversify our strengths."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Therefore, I proposed to my grandfather that we actively seek to recruit another clan into our village. I understand that inviting outsiders carries inherent risks, and a thorough vetting process will be crucial.
Over the past month, I have given considerable thought to which clan should be our first potential ally, and I believe we should extend an invitation to the Chinoike Clan. They possess formidable Ninjutsu and ocular prowess comparable to the Uchiha's Sharingan."
Once again, the room erupted into fervent debate, this time with a heightened intensity. Many elders voiced staunch opposition, arguing that the introduction of foreign ninjas would inevitably erode their unique Uzumaki identity and way of life. Others countered with passionate arguments, asserting that strategic alliances were the only path for Uzushiogakure to truly ascend and potentially claim its rightful place as the Sixth Great Village.
The mere mention of becoming the Sixth Great Village seemed to ignite a spark of ambition in the eyes of many elders, a tantalizing glimpse of a future where Uzushiogakure stood on equal footing with the established powers.
Seeing the escalating and increasingly polarized discussion, Ashina raised his hand, his voice cutting through the clamor. "Fellow Elders, let us approach this with caution and pragmatism. Rather than an immediate integration, we should consider a trial alliance with the Chinoike Clan.
However, before any formal invitation is extended, we must dispatch a team to meet with their current clan head and gauge their interest in joining our village. As we are all aware, the Chinoike have a troubled history with the major nations, stemming from their unjust banishment."
A consensus began to form. The elders, swayed by Ashina's measured approach and the potential benefits outlined by Akashi, agreed that a preliminary contact mission was a prudent first step.
"As we are all in favor of exploring this potential alliance," Ashina declared, his gaze settling on a familiar figure, "I shall entrust Kuroko and his Anbu team with the task of making initial contact with the Chinoike Clan."
Kuroko, the stoic Anbu commander, stepped forward, offering a silent nod of acknowledgment to his Clan Head.
Yes, Akashi thought, a quiet sense of satisfaction settling within him. I do love it when a plan comes together.
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End of 8th chapter
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Author's Note:
Hello author here I appreciate the suggestions you've all been giving. most of those suggestions may show up in the future like the Chinoike clan.Also, keep up the comments and maybe some reviews, they push me to write
Have a nice night