"For the glory of the Uchiha Clan!" Uchiha Ye's resolute voice echoed throughout the Uchiha Nanga Shrine. His declaration simultaneously embarrassed Uchiha Fugaku, who stood nearby, and yet secretly filled him with relief. The mission was for the clan, but Uchiha pride and the burden of responsibility weighed heavily, making it almost impossible for him to fully accept.
"Fugaku, look at Ye-kun! The clan's future depends on him," someone whispered. Fugaku cast a rare, scrutinizing glance at his usually proud son. Yet, despite his stern exterior, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Ye's success seemed almost innate, an advantage that no amount of effort could guarantee for others.
Uchiha Yari, clad in a pure white kimono paired with black pants, stood with commanding presence. His chest slightly exposed revealed a strong, sculpted form, and black arm guards covered his forearms, extending to his palms. A black leather belt cinched his waist, and a ninja sword rested across his back. His handsome, chiseled features, upright posture, and meticulously designed attire created a striking image. In appearance, he now bore an uncanny resemblance to Sasuke the Snake.
The outfit, designed entirely by Uchiha Mikoto, was specially made for this important gathering with the elders. For a moment, Mikoto felt a pang of regret, realizing she had outshone herself. Yet, Elder Setsuna, observing Ye's determined expression and commanding presence, couldn't help but nod in approval.
"This is the perfect moment for our clan," Elder Setsuna said. "The Third Hokage's policies over the past twenty years have caused discontent among the major clans. Even the Senju Clan has had to protect the next Nine-Tails Jinchūriki within their own ranks." A rare sneer graced his face. "White Fang's reputation now surpasses the Third Hokage's—not only due to his strength, but also because of the influence of the other major clans. Even the Senju Clan is dissatisfied with the Third Hokage's governance."
Listening carefully, Uchiha Ye frowned. Whether these statements were true or not, it was clear that a powerful figure, such as the Hokage, would naturally be wary of other strong clans rising too prominently, including the Senju. Historical events only reinforced this idea: during World War II, Nawaki died in a bombing, Tsunade's partner was killed, and Kushina, the Senju Clan's Jinchūriki, became entangled in political webs. The Senju clan seemed repeatedly sidelined, their failures in political maneuvering evident.
Putting aside whether Tsunade was complicit in these conspiracies, Ye realized that even the new generation of Konoha ninjas had little awareness of the Senju Clan's legacy—a fact impossible without the Third Hokage's policies. More importantly, White Fang was not originally a ninja, giving the Uchiha Clan a tacit understanding with the major families.
Ye, interpreting Elder Setsuna's words and Mikoto's subtle glances, immediately understood the opportunity before him. By approaching the next Nine-Tails Jinchūriki, Uzumaki Kushina, the Uchiha could maintain influence and potentially reshape the balance of power.
Mikoto, who had remained silent until now, spoke with a grave expression. "Clan leader, elders, although Ye-kun serves under Captain Tsunade, his chances to interact with Uzumaki Kushina are limited. Even with my presence, overt interactions would raise suspicion. However, Ye-kun's newly awakened dual kekkei genkai requires Tsunade-sama's treatment. This gives him a legitimate reason to contact Kushina, though the cell-stabilizing potion he needs is extremely precious."
Elder Setsuna was momentarily speechless. Had he not known about his granddaughter's connection to Ye-kun, he might have dismissed her explanation entirely. Yet standing beside her, Ye's gratitude was evident—Mikoto had once again proven her indispensable support. The clan leader and Elder Setsuna exchanged a subtle nod; Ye's combination of skill, appearance, and legitimate reasoning made him ideal for this delicate mission.
"The clan will not neglect any Uchiha. Uchiha Ye, your bloodline has progressed. The clan will provide monthly medicine funds. Do not let the clan down!"
It was an age-old principle: if you wanted a horse to run fast, you had to feed it well. The task at hand was arduous and rare; only someone with talent, awareness, and an impressive presence could handle it. The clan spoke generously, without hesitation.
Ye nodded solemnly, already calculating the possibilities. This could be his golden opportunity.
Exiting Nanga Shrine, Fugaku appeared embarrassed yet proud. "Ye-kun, here is the scroll the clan gives to those who have awakened their Sharingan."
The Uchiha treated those with awakened bloodlines with high regard, providing all necessary tools and supplies. Ye examined the scroll, filled with techniques and training methods for the Sharingan. "Thank you, Captain Fugaku," he said respectfully.
Fugaku felt a mixture of embarrassment and pride, knowing the sacrifices Ye had made for the clan. He nodded solemnly. "Ye-kun, the family will never forget you."
Mikoto, standing nearby, smiled gently. "Captain Fugaku, Ye-kun's strength is formidable. With the opening of the Sharingan, his chakra and physical abilities will undergo significant growth. Recently, the family purchased a large stock of chakra metal…"
Ye raised a hand to stop her from continuing. "Mikoto, everything we do is for the family."
Seeing Ye's determination, Fugaku felt both embarrassed and awed. He nodded quietly, understanding the depth of Ye's commitment. With his new abilities and resources, it would not be long before Ye wielded a chakra metal weapon of his own.
The chapter closed on a scene of solemn pride, strategic opportunity, and the promise of Uchiha glory. Ye-kun, standing tall, prepared to serve both the clan and the future, embodying the spirit and resilience of the Uchiha.
(End of Chapter 13)