11-15

Chapter 11: Unease

Uchiha Setsuna smirked and said, “So these past few years, all you’ve done is raise birds, take walks, and—”

“Enough!”

Itsuki interrupted Setsuna, speaking lightly, “Those trivial matters aren’t worth mentioning. As for the four orders I just gave, does anyone have objections?”

The crowd exchanged glances, including Fugaku, and all shook their heads in unison.

Such a good deal—they had no reason to refuse.

Taking care of the clan’s elderly, women, and children was something they were already supposed to do. Now Itsuki was offering payment for it. Could there be anything better?

Who would turn down money?

As for the Police Force...

Like Itsuki said, catching petty thieves couldn’t possibly be more appealing than learning advanced ninjutsu. The Uchiha clan had a vast repository of ninjutsu, mostly fire-style.

However, accessing those techniques wasn’t without restrictions—it required contributions to the clan.

The techniques Itsuki was offering, though, came with no strings attached.

Even the pacifist faction couldn’t voice any opposition.

Itsuki wasn’t doing anything that endangered the village. If strengthening the Uchiha was seen as a threat to the village, well, even the most village-aligned members of the pacifist faction wouldn’t agree with that.

Being close to the village didn’t mean being foolish.

If the Uchiha lost their power, would the village still treat them with respect?

Plenty of people coveted the Uchiha’s kekkei genkai. It wasn’t just one or two.

So, the motion passed unanimously.

“I have a concern!”

A hand shot up.

Everyone turned to look, stunned.

It was Shisui!

He wore a troubled expression. “Itsuki, why are you putting me in charge of this? I’m worried I won’t handle it well.”

Five hundred million ryo!

That was an astronomical amount. If something went wrong, selling him wouldn’t be enough to cover the loss!

As a ninja, completing the most top-tier S-ranked missions earned only about a million ryo.

Itsuki replied earnestly, “Because you, Shisui, are serious and responsible. I trust you!”

“Heh.”

Shisui gave a forced laugh.

If I believe that, I must be an idiot! Itsuki really thinks I’m that gullible?

“If you don’t understand something, ask the elders—or even the clan leader,” Itsuki said, waving dismissively. “This is my first order since taking office, and I won’t tolerate objections. Got it? Look, even the clan leader hasn’t spoken up against my orders. You need to give me some respect, understand?”

The Mangekyo Sharingan scanned the room, and the Uchiha clan members nodded in unison.

Fugaku’s lips twitched.

He wanted to object, but was Itsuki giving him the chance? Did he really think Fugaku couldn’t sense the killing intent radiating from him?

Fugaku was certain—if he tried to stop Itsuki today, Itsuki would definitely kill him.

As the head of the Konoha Police Force, Fugaku was a member of the village’s leadership. Even the Hokage was wary of him, and he knew things most people didn’t.

For example, Itsuki’s temperament.

During the Great Ninja War, Itsuki had shown astonishing decisiveness when faced with choices.

Now that he had decided to act, anyone in his way would be ruthlessly eliminated.

Besides, after years of maintaining a balance between the village and the clan, Fugaku was mentally and physically exhausted. If Itsuki wanted to take a different approach, why not let him try?

During Fugaku’s tenure, Itsuki had secretly rallied so many supporters, catching him off guard.

A person like that, once in charge of the Uchiha, might actually surprise both him and the Hokage.

“Alright, everyone, let’s get to work!”

“Yes!”

The Uchiha Jonin shouted in unison and vanished using the Body Flicker Technique.

Thus, the Uchiha clan meeting concluded.

However, the tremors this caused, both within the Uchiha and the village, were unimaginable.

To think there was something beyond the three-tomoe Sharingan—a Mangekyo Sharingan! According to reliable sources, an Uchiha who awakened the Mangekyo had Kage-level power.

Did this mean the Uchiha clan now had two Kage-level powerhouses?

This alone was enough to energize the entire Uchiha clan.

Additionally, Itsuki had been appointed deputy clan leader and deputy head of the Police Force. The Police Force’s four squads were set to be restructured into eight.

This signified a major reshuffling of Uchiha leadership.

Itsuki was now in full command of the Uchiha clan.

As for changes to the clan’s barriers, lookouts, and patrols, the Uchiha were not opposed—in fact, they cooperated enthusiastically.

These measures were for the clan’s protection. Having the leadership act cautiously wasn’t a bad thing!

Most importantly, Itsuki had contributed a massive amount of ninjutsu and funds.

This selfless contribution would greatly enhance the Uchiha clan’s strength.

Some Uchiha were already calling for Itsuki to be made clan leader immediately!

---

*Hokage Office*

The Third Hokage, pipe in mouth, gazed toward the Uchiha compound, his eyes deep and contemplative.

He had received word that the Uchiha had held another clan meeting.

Too frequent.

Did this mean they were planning something?

Knock, knock, knock…

Creak!

Amid the sound of a cane tapping, the office door slowly opened.

A figure, half of his body wrapped in bandages and exuding a chilling aura, entered.

“Danzo, what is it?”

The Third Hokage’s weary voice rang out.

There weren’t many people in Konoha who entered the Hokage’s office unannounced. Only one of them carried such a sinister presence.

Danzo said coldly, “What are you planning to do about the Uchiha? Their clan meetings are becoming more frequent.”

The Third Hokage remained silent.

Danzo sneered, “How long are you going to hesitate? Until they’re at your doorstep?”

“Danzo!” The Hokage’s tone turned stern. “The Uchiha are a ninja clan of Konoha. They are our comrades. Without solid evidence, I will never agree to act against them.”

Danzo’s voice was laced with suppressed anger. “When they act, it’ll be too late. Evidence? Hah! If you want evidence, I have plenty.”

“Danzo, drop your little games. The Uchiha possess incredible power. Underestimating them will be your regret.”

The Hokage’s expression was grave.

“Of course I know that. You and I both know how dangerous the Uchiha’s power is!”

Danzo’s face twisted into a terrifying smile.

The Hokage continued puffing his pipe, his expression growing darker.

As time passed, Danzo’s impatience became evident.

Sarutobi, you’ve grown weak. You hesitate over a mere Uchiha.

Evidence?

Is that even necessary?

Anyone who threatens the village should be dealt with.

From Uchiha Madara to Senju Nawaki, it’s all the same.

You’re no longer fit to sit in the Hokage’s chair. Only I, Shimura Danzo, can lead Konoha to the pinnacle of the ninja world!

Danzo turned and began to leave.

“Danzo!”

As the door was about to close, the Third Hokage’s low voice stopped him.

“Don’t act recklessly. Remember—I am the Hokage!”

Danzo froze for a moment, his face unreadable, then walked away without a word.

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 12: Avoiding Conflict*

The Third Hokage gazed at Danzo’s departing figure and let out a deep sigh.

"Danzo, you are the roots of Konoha. You don’t need to think about everything. But I am the Hokage—I have to consider so many aspects that you can’t imagine."

Different positions bring different responsibilities.

There’s a saying: Your seat determines your perspective.  

As the Hokage, he must think from the Hokage’s standpoint.

Even though the Uchiha clan doesn’t have a good reputation in the village, they are one of Konoha’s oldest clans.

If the Hokage takes action against an entire clan without evidence, what would the other clans think?

Thanks to the efforts of previous Hokages, civilian ninjas in Konoha have begun to rise to prominence, but the true foundation of the village still lies in its clans.

To attack a clan would be like uprooting Konoha’s foundation.

And besides, is the Uchiha clan so easily bullied?

As their leader, Fugaku Uchiha must have hidden some of their strength.

While Shisui and Itachi stand on their side, opposing their own clan, how far can they be trusted?

Most importantly, it has been over three years since the Third Shinobi World War. The major villages have regained some of their strength.

Kumogakure and Iwagakure are once again eyeing Konoha aggressively.

Even Sunagakure has engaged in several small-scale skirmishes along the border, giving the Third Hokage constant headaches.

Starting an internal conflict within the village now, regardless of the Uchiha’s actions, would spell Konoha’s doom.

The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, shifted his gaze to a photograph of a blond youth in one corner of the room.

The young man in the photo exuded an aura of both authority and warmth, youthfulness, and vitality.

The Fourth Hokage!

... Perhaps we were wrong back then.

The Third Hokage’s face became shrouded in smoke as he exhaled deeply.

---

The tension in the village was palpable.

Because of the Uchiha!

They had suddenly isolated their entire clan, cutting off all communication with the outside world.

Many ninjas began to speculate wildly, filling the village with unease.

This was especially true for the high-ranking members of other clans.

Rumors of a potential Uchiha rebellion had already reached them through various channels. Now, with such drastic moves from the Uchiha, something unseen for years, people were on edge.

Was the Uchiha clan preparing to act?

If civil war broke out, how should they respond?

Both the ANBU under the Hokage and the Root organization under Danzo began deploying more personnel to monitor the Uchiha compound.

This only worsened the tense atmosphere.

---

"Itsuki, what are you trying to do?"

Fugaku Uchiha glared at Itsuki, clearly displeased.

Preparations for the barrier were complete—supplies were in place, and personnel were ready.

Yet Itsuki had ordered all information sealed and cut off the clan’s communication with the village.

If it were up to him, he would have issued a public statement to prevent misunderstandings. But Itsuki seemed to be secretly fanning the flames, plunging the entire village into chaos.

Fugaku couldn’t understand.

Does he want to watch the world burn?

And you say you didn’t inherit Uchiha Setsuna’s will?

Itsuki glanced at Fugaku and sighed. "Clan leader, no wonder you can only be the clan head and not the deputy clan head. That’s the difference."

Fugaku froze, then retorted, "Not being deputy clan head is hardly a loss!"

Setsuna and Sougi burst out laughing.

What kind of logic was that? Since when was being a deputy more desirable?

Remember, you’re his subordinate!

"Will there be a fight?"

"What?"

"I said, will the village and the Uchiha clash?" Itsuki repeated.

"They won’t!" Uchiha Sougi replied firmly. "No matter how wary they are of the Uchiha, they wouldn’t make a move under these circumstances."

"Then there you go. Let them sweat a little—it’s not a bad thing!"

Itsuki’s demeanor was relaxed, as if he didn’t care.

The others frowned initially but then seemed to grasp something.

Let them sweat...

"Explain yourself!" Uchiha Setsuna demanded coldly, glaring at his grandson.

Sometimes, he really wanted to smack him!

"Fine!" Itsuki sighed dramatically. "Once they realize it was a false alarm, what do you think will happen?"

"They’ll breathe a huge sigh of relief. At that point, they’ll also understand how much they don’t want to be enemies with the Uchiha."

"I’m not overestimating our clan just because I’m an Uchiha."

"Everyone here fought in the Shinobi World War. They know the Uchiha’s strength better than anyone."

"Even if they could destroy the Uchiha by joining forces, do they really want to be our enemies?"

"The benefits of avoiding conflict far outweigh the risks—I don’t need to spell it out, do I?"

The three elders fell silent, their gazes toward Itsuki becoming more complex.

It was a simple concept, but they wouldn’t have thought of it.

And yet, they had to admit Itsuki’s method might be better.

It looked like he was pushing the village into chaos, but in truth, he was avoiding war.

"Of course," Itsuki added with a shrug, "there’s always the chance that a certain Root leader might stir up trouble and ignite a war. No one can predict Danzo’s bottom line. That’s why I sent Itachi to report to the Third Hokage."

"Given the Hokage’s nature, he’ll definitely issue a strict order to Danzo to stay put."

"Itachi?"

Itsuki smirked at Fugaku. "Clan leader, don’t tell me you didn’t know Itachi is a double agent."

"A double agent?"

Both Setsuna and Sougi were stunned, their gazes turning cold toward Fugaku.

Fugaku frowned deeply.

Of course, he knew. But he trusted his son would understand him.

Seeing Fugaku’s expression, Itsuki seemed to guess his thoughts and couldn’t help but inwardly curse.

If Itachi eventually breaks and turns against the clan, Fugaku Uchiha will bear the greatest responsibility.

Damn it, is he really your son?

Can’t you give him fewer tasks and more care?

Taking him to the battlefield at four years old!

Seriously, is this how you treat your own child?

Look at Sarutobi Hiruzen.

"Itachi... At seven, he can already think like a Hokage."

WTF!  

Is that even a compliment?

Anyone praised like that would be overwhelmed, driven by a sense of obligation to sacrifice for their benefactor!

Itsuki wanted to ask: If he can think like a Hokage at seven, does he have a chance to become Hokage someday?  

Absolutely not!

Even if Itachi weren’t an Uchiha, it wouldn’t change a thing!

Itachi likely understands this, but it doesn’t stop him from serving the Hokage.

In this respect, Fugaku is nothing more than an amateur.

"Fugaku, do you have anything to explain?"

Uchiha Setsuna’s voice was icy.

"No!"

Itsuki answered for him, smiling. "Old man, why so tense? A double agent is even better. Because Itachi is loyal to the clan, he’s perfectly positioned to deliver any messages we want the Hokage’s faction to hear."

"For instance... two pairs of Mangekyo Sharingan!"

(Chapter End)

Chapter 13: Towering Blood Flames (Part 1)

“Two pairs of Mangekyō Sharingan?!”

The pipe in Hiruzen Sarutobi’s hand fell to the ground with a clink.

He didn’t bother picking it up. Instead, he fixed his gaze on the kneeling Uchiha Itachi before him, his voice urgent. “Are you certain? Two Mangekyō Sharingan?”

“Uchiha Itsuki challenged Uchiha Fugaku in front of the entire clan during a meeting. Both revealed unique forms of the Sharingan. According to Fugaku, both possess the Mangekyō Sharingan.”

Without lifting his head, Itachi recounted the information with a calm tone.

Hiruzen remained silent for a long moment before finally muttering, “The Uchiha clan… truly a blessed lineage.”

Itachi said nothing.

The Third Hokage suddenly ordered, “Go summon Koharu and Homura. Especially Danzo—no matter what he’s doing, have him report to me immediately.”

“Yes, sir!”

A voice echoed from the air, and then the room fell silent once more.

Hiruzen bent to pick up his pipe, lighting it again. His brow furrowed deeply, his mind heavy with thoughts.

Before long, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado arrived, their expressions puzzled as they faced Hiruzen.

“Hiruzen, is this about the Uchiha planning a coup?” Koharu’s icy voice carried a sharp edge, her cold gaze locking onto the kneeling Itachi.

Itachi’s lips curled into a faint, bitter smile as he kept his head bowed.

As expected.

Brother Itsuki was right: these people never had any intention of accepting the Uchiha.

“No.” The Third Hokage shook his head firmly. “This time, the Uchiha severed their ties with the village to perfect their clan’s barrier system.”

“Then why—”

“Here, look at this first,” Hiruzen interrupted, handing them the intelligence report.

Koharu and Homura scanned it, and their eyes widened in shock.

“Two pairs of Mangekyō Sharingan?”

“Fugaku and Itsuki?”

“Both of them have Mangekyō Sharingan?”

They weren’t strangers to the names.

Fugaku was the clan head of the Uchiha and their greatest adversary.

Itsuki was the “Crimson Flame,” a rising star who had earned renown during the Third Great Ninja War. He was the grandson of the hawkish Uchiha Setsuna and a staunch representative of the Uchiha hardliners. Suppressing him had required quite a bit of maneuvering, including some tricks by Danzo and Hiruzen propping up Kagami’s grandson to diffuse the situation.

But now both of them possessed the Mangekyō Sharingan?

As former disciples of Tobirama Senju, Koharu and Homura knew all too well the terrifying implications of the Mangekyō Sharingan. Their teacher had repeatedly warned them about its potential.

“Something must be done immediately, Hiruzen,” Koharu and Homura exclaimed in unison, their urgency apparent.

“Don’t rush,” Hiruzen said, his voice steady. “I’ve already summoned Danzo. We’ll discuss our next steps once he arrives.”

The two exchanged a glance, seeing their shared anxiety mirrored in each other’s eyes. But for now, they could do nothing but wait.

---

Deep within Konoha.

Danzo Shimura stood surrounded by rows of ninja. His face was impassive, radiating a cold and oppressive aura.

The ninjas before him shared a similar energy, though less intense. Each wore eerie animal masks, their presence oozing foreboding.

“We are the roots of Konoha,” Danzo declared, his solitary eye scanning his subordinates. “Our mission is to protect the village. Any threat to its stability must be eradicated. The Uchiha are preparing an armed coup to overthrow the village. Such a clan cannot be allowed to exist.”

He continued coldly, “I order you to activate all sleeper agents within the ninja clans. Incite conflict between the Uchiha and the village, and in the ensuing chaos, we will marshal Konoha’s full strength to annihilate the Uchiha.”

“Yes, sir!” the ninjas shouted in unison.

“Wait!”

A ninja wearing a similarly styled mask but with simpler patterns appeared before Danzo.

He knelt on one knee and spoke in a low voice. “Lord Danzo, the Hokage has ordered you to report to his office immediately.”

“Now?” Danzo’s tone darkened.

“Yes,” the Anbu ninja replied. “The Hokage’s orders are urgent. You are to drop everything and report immediately. Elder Koharu and Elder Homura are already there.”

“Hmph.”

Danzo’s expression shifted subtly. He had assumed this was another of Hiruzen’s naive attempts to curb him with his idealistic notions of peace. But it seemed something unexpected had occurred.

“Understood,” Danzo replied coolly. “I’ll go immediately.”

With that, the Anbu ninja vanished using a Body Flicker Technique.

Danzo paused to reflect, then turned to his subordinates with an icy tone. “No matter what happens, we must eliminate any threats. Bring me Uchiha Itsuki’s head.”

“Yes, sir!”

The Root ninjas disappeared into the shadows.

---

At that moment, Uchiha Itsuki was leisurely strolling through the village.

He wandered into a secluded corner of Konoha, muttering to himself, “Come on, Danzo, don’t miss this golden opportunity. If you let this slip, you’re not even human—you’re worse than a pig or dog!”

“Where’s your Root? Why aren’t they here yet?”

“My head is practically begging for you to claim it.”

Itsuki chuckled to himself as he walked.

Danzo Shimura—what a fascinating man. To Itsuki, he was practically the perfect scapegoat. Any issue in Konoha, whether it involved the Uchiha, Hiruzen, or other clans, would inevitably be pinned on Danzo.

He was, without question, Konoha’s ultimate public enemy.

“Damn that Danzo!” Over half of Konoha’s senior leadership had uttered those words aloud, and the rest had likely thought it silently.

Sometimes, Itsuki found himself musing. If Danzo were just a bit more ruthless, he might truly become a ninja on par with the Hokage.

After all, what unites people with diverging interests?

Not an oppressive ruler, but a common enemy.

Danzo had been walking this path all along—he’d just taken a wrong turn.

Itsuki’s goal? To guide Danzo back onto the right track and elevate him to unparalleled greatness!

*Chapter 14: The Sky-High Flames of Blood (Part 2)*

"Uchiha Itsuki!"

Several figures encircled Itsuki, one of them speaking coldly: "Come with us!"

"Finally!"

Itsuki let out a long sigh of relief.

After waiting so long, wasn’t this exactly the moment he had been anticipating? For these masked individuals to finally show up?

You’re so slow. I was starting to get bored out of my mind.  

Itsuki delicately pinched his fingers into a poised gesture, humming a tune as he sang softly:

"Who sent you, to come to me…"

As he sang, he even swayed his hips slightly.

The Root operatives stood silent.

This is supposed to be the terrifying Bloody Flame of the Uchiha?  

Instead, they were overwhelmed by a sense of profound absurdity.

"Uchiha Itsuki—"

"Fire Release!"

Before the Root ninja could continue, Itsuki had already formed hand signs.

"Great Fireball Technique!"

Boom!  

A surge of crimson flames engulfed two of the Root operatives instantly, leaving nothing but charred corpses in their wake.

"You—!"

The remaining Root operatives were stunned.

The attack had come too suddenly, giving them no time to react.

Moreover, Itsuki had dared to assault members of the ANBU under the Hokage's direct command!

"So it’s true," one Root ninja shouted. "Just as Lord Danzō suspected, the Uchiha clan has betrayed the village!"

"Kill him!"

Swish!  

One of the Root members drew a blade and closed the distance to Itsuki in an instant, swinging down with a deadly strike.

Itsuki raised his head, his Sharingan whirling with three tomoe.

The Root ninja froze in place.

Swish!  

Thud!  

Itsuki's hand moved with lethal precision, and the Root operative's head flew into the air.

In the blink of an eye, three comrades were dead. The remaining three Root ninja were visibly shaken.

Every ninja in the Root was an elite, yet they were powerless against Itsuki!

"Fire Release—"

"Earth Release—"

Two of the Root operatives prepared to unleash their jutsu.

Swish!  

Itsuki's figure vanished.

When he reappeared, he stood behind the two Root operatives. Their heads had already left their bodies, blood spraying in an arc.

The metallic scent of blood filled the air.

"My Body Flicker Technique," Itsuki said with a grin, "isn’t inferior to Shisui’s. How does ‘The Bloody Flame of the Flicker’ sound as a title?"

His gaze turned to the last remaining Root ninja.

The man's body trembled as he stared at Itsuki with abject fear.

Even as a member of Root, death was not something he could fully escape fearing.

They were merely trained to place duty above death.

"You—you dare kill ANBU agents?"

"You’re not ANBU. You’re Root," Itsuki said with a chuckle. "Root has already separated from the ANBU. You serve Danzō, while ANBU serves the Hokage. Or could it be that in your mind, the Hokage’s orders outrank Danzō’s?"

The Root operative stayed silent, glaring at Itsuki with ferocity.

"Let me send you on your way. Goodbye!"

With a lighthearted laugh, Itsuki formed another set of hand signs.

"Fire Release: Majestic Destroyer Flame!"

Boom!  

A towering pillar of flame erupted, enveloping the last Root ninja and shooting into the sky.

The sheer scale of the inferno drew the attention of countless onlookers, exactly as Itsuki had intended.

The Uchiha clan was about to make its move, and Itsuki’s reappearance would serve as an unmistakable signal.

Before long, a crowd of ninjas arrived at the scene. They found Itsuki standing lazily amid the carnage, his expression casual.

Many of them recognized him.

Just as Minato Namikaze had first been known as the Yellow Flash before becoming the Fourth Hokage, Itsuki had built his reputation during the Third Great Ninja War.

His fame, earned through his terrifying crimson flames, had been etched into the memories of friend and foe alike.

"Itsuki, what are you doing here?"

While the high-ranking officials hadn’t yet arrived, Nara Shikaku, the Jonin Commander, stepped forward.

Looking at Itsuki, Shikaku’s face was full of exasperation.

What a headache!  

Can’t the village go a few days without some kind of uproar? Why does something always have to happen?  

Of course, Shikaku didn’t direct his frustrations entirely at Itsuki.

As Konoha’s sharpest mind, he had his own conclusions.

He had met Itsuki before. This man wasn’t someone who sought out trouble, but neither was he someone who avoided it.

Itsuki greeted Shikaku with a smile. "Hello, Shikaku-senpai. I was just killing a few people, that’s all."

Killing a few people—just that?  

Shikaku felt a pounding headache.

Especially since the corpses on the ground looked suspiciously like ANBU members.

Anything involving ANBU was never a "small matter."

And everyone else present shared the same thought.

The Uchiha clan’s sudden withdrawal from village affairs only made the situation more tense.

Swish, swish, swish!  

At that moment, Konoha’s high-ranking officials finally arrived.

Seeing the burnt corpses, their faces tightened.

Danzō was the first to speak, his voice sharp with anger:

"Uchiha Itsuki, how dare you kill members of the ANBU! Have you betrayed the village?"

Just moments ago, Danzō had been called to the Hokage’s office, where he saw the latest intelligence on the Uchiha.

The revelation that Itsuki had awakened the Mangekyō Sharingan had sent a chill through him.

The agents he had dispatched were like lambs sent to the slaughter.

And then, the massive flare of crimson fire had erupted, drawing attention from all corners of the village.

"Danzō!" Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, turned a piercing glare toward his old friend.

Seeing the blazing pillar of flames and the uneasy expression on Danzō’s face, Hiruzen quickly pieced the situation together.

"What did you do?" he demanded angrily.

Before Danzō could reply, Hiruzen hurried to the scene, followed closely by the others.

There, they saw Itsuki standing amidst the carnage.

"Yes," Itsuki said with a light laugh. "I’ve betrayed the village. So, what are you going to do about it? Wipe out the Uchiha clan?"

Everyone froze.

No one had expected Itsuki to answer so directly.

He had actually admitted it.

Has he lost his mind?  

Many faces went pale. Was the village about to face open conflict with the Uchiha clan?

"Fine, if you admit it, then—"

"That’s enough, Danzō! Stand down!"

Hiruzen’s voice was cold, his commanding presence silencing Danzō.

Clicking his tongue, Danzō stepped back, though his expression remained dark.

Hiruzen turned his gaze to Itsuki, his tone serious. "Itsuki, what happened here? Who are these people? I don’t believe you would betray the village, so give me an explanation."

The smile never left Itsuki’s face. "As expected of the Hokage. Unlike certain others who throw around baseless accusations, blinded by their own schemes and conspiracies."

Danzō’s face turned an unpleasant shade of green.

Itsuki continued, "To be honest, I’m not entirely sure what happened either. I was taking a walk when these ANBU suddenly appeared and attacked me. I had no choice but to defend myself. Strange, isn’t it…?"

His gaze met Hiruzen’s, carrying a subtle yet piercing message.

Hiruzen felt a tightness in his chest.

Swish, swish, swish!  

At that moment, more figures appeared.

Seeing who they were, Hiruzen’s frown deepened.

It was a group of Uchiha Jonin.

"Deputy Clan Leader!"

The leader, Uchiha Yashiro, bowed respectfully to Itsuki.

"Deputy Clan Leader?"

Shikaku looked visibly shocked.

Information about the Uchiha’s leadership changes had been kept tightly restricted to the village’s top brass. Even Shikaku, as the Jonin Commander, hadn’t known that Itsuki was now both Deputy Clan Leader and Deputy Chief of the Konoha Police Force.

Chapter 15: The Roar of the Young Dragon (1)

“What’s this?”

With a faint smile, Fēngnán looked at Nara Shikaku and said, “Senior Shikaku, don’t you know? The Uchiha clan just passed a resolution. I’m now the deputy clan leader of the Uchiha, as well as the deputy commander of the Konoha Police Force!”

The surrounding shinobi began to stir slightly.

They knew all too well what this meant.

Was the once-dreaded *Scarlet Flame* emerging from the shadows again?

Even the Yellow Flash couldn’t suppress him back in the day, and now that Minato Namikaze is dead, doesn’t this mean this Uchiha will dominate the younger generation?

Although there was still Uchiha Shisui, he was also an Uchiha.

Fēngnán on the battlefield was a sharp and brilliant blade.

But because of his Uchiha name, many people hoped the only place he’d show up was on the battlefield.

After three years of silence, why was he stepping forward now?

Was the Uchiha’s recent detachment from the village somehow connected to him?

A flicker of rigidity flashed across Nara Shikaku’s face.

He genuinely hadn’t heard this news before.

As the head of Konoha’s Jonin commanders, he technically counted as one of the upper echelons.

But during the reign of Hiruzen Sarutobi, how much of an upper echelon member was he, really?

The title was in name only.

Even the power those four people wielded wasn’t enough to go around—who would willingly share some with him?

Fortunately, Shikaku wasn’t particularly interested in power. Yes, he wasn’t interested at all.

But couldn’t they at least reduce his workload?

Struggling to suppress the urge to glance at Hiruzen Sarutobi and the others, Shikaku grumbled internally while maintaining a polite smile. “Congratulations then, Fēngnán. But tell me, these shinobi who suddenly attacked you—are you saying they were trying to kill you?”

“Yes!” Fēngnán said pitifully. “Senior Shikaku, you don’t know how terrifying it was! I was just minding my own business, going for a walk, when out of nowhere someone tried to take me out! If I hadn’t reacted quickly, I’d be a goner.”

This made several shinobi instinctively glance at Danzō.

If there was anyone Fēngnán had a grudge against...

The mission he took on years ago had been far too suspicious, especially the timing.

It was right before the Third Shinobi War ended.

The situation had unfolded like clockwork. Just as Fēngnán was hailed as a hero, scandalous rumors about him swept through the village in less than a day. Overnight, he went from the heavens to the depths of hell, shunned by everyone.

The grudge between Fēngnán and Danzō ran deep.

Now, with Fēngnán stepping forward and assuming the role of deputy clan leader of the Uchiha, it was almost certain that he would become the clan leader in the future.

As his enemy, Danzō making a move at this moment seemed only natural.

Unfortunately, Fēngnán was not one to shy away from conflict. He had killed the people sent after him and caused a major uproar about it.

The shinobi present couldn’t help but imagine the unfolding drama in their minds.

“A walk?”

Danzō sneered. “Isn’t the Uchiha district large enough for you? What were you doing wandering into such a remote area? Fēngnán, are you sure you weren’t caught committing treason, only to be intercepted by members of the ANBU?”

“Silence, Danzō!” The Third Hokage scolded harshly. “It’s too early to determine if those were ANBU agents.”

Danzō shot a cold glance at his old friend. He knew the Third Hokage still didn’t want to openly break ties with the Uchiha.

How foolish.

Couldn’t he see the threat they posed?

Fēngnán chuckled softly, his smile widening as he looked at Danzō. “One-Eye, do you even think before you speak?”

One-Eye?

Several people almost burst out laughing.

The way Fēngnán said it, paired with his expression, was simply too much to bear.

“You insolent brat, what did you call me?”

Koharu Utatane, enraged, yelled sharply. She was about to speak further when her words froze under the gaze of a pair of cold, cruel eyes.

The eyes held a strange triangular pattern.

...It wasn’t the usual tomoe shape—could it be the *Mangekyō Sharingan*?

The Third Hokage and his companions felt their hearts sink.

Though they had anticipated it, they had still clung to some faint hope. Now, that hope was shattered.

The other shinobi, unfamiliar with the Mangekyō, were struck by the ominous aura radiating from the strange eyes.

It was as if they might be torn apart at any moment.

“Now is not the time to provoke me,” Fēngnán said coldly. “I’ve shed blood for the village, achieved countless victories, and never betrayed it. Yet here I am, nearly assassinated within its walls. And you still question my attitude? Who do you think you are? Do you think your opinions are worth so much?”

His icy gaze locked onto Koharu Utatane.

“As for that mission back then, shall we have it properly investigated? A thorough investigation, with every clan contributing shinobi, to get to the bottom of it—how about that?”

Faces turned pale.

“There’s no need!” Danzō interrupted sharply. “That incident has long since been settled. It’s undeniable that those comrades of the village died because of you.”

“Oh, is that so?” Fēngnán suddenly smiled. His gaze shifted to a figure in the crowd, someone with dead-fish eyes. With a cheerful grin, he said, “You remind me of someone.”

The Third Hokage’s heart filled with dread. A massive, overwhelming fear gripped him, breaking his composure. He shouted, “Fēngnán, stop!”

“Kakashi Hatake’s father, Sakumo Hatake.”

Fēngnán enunciated the name slowly.

The gathering fell into a dead silence.

Some people’s breathing quickened.

Others wore expressions as dark as storm clouds.

“Ha.” Fēngnán chuckled, his grin widening. “Sakumo chose his comrades over the mission. You claim I chose the mission over my comrades. So we were both wrong, weren’t we?”

The crowd fell utterly silent, one after another.

Only Danzō and his allies looked like they were about to explode with rage.

“Now I understand.” Fēngnán’s smile grew colder. “Apparently, every shinobi must protect their comrades and complete the mission at the same time. Otherwise, they’re failures and deserve the scorn of everyone.”

“That’s enough, Fēngnán!” The Third Hokage’s voice was icy. “These bodies will be taken by the ANBU for a thorough investigation. The truth will be revealed, and everyone will get an explanation.”

“In the meantime, I expect you to remain quiet and available at all times!”

Ignoring the blatant threat in the Hokage’s words, Fēngnán replied cheerfully, “The Uchiha clan is busy updating its barriers, sentries, and patrols. As a senior member of the clan, I naturally hope for peace and stability.”

Sweat began to pour down Shikaku’s face.

His voice trembled as he asked, “Deputy Clan Leader Fēngnán, what do you mean by the Uchiha’s barriers, sentries, and patrols changing?”

The others looked equally startled.

“Oh, it’s nothing major,” Fēngnán said with a smile. “The old systems are decades outdated. It’s about time for an upgrade.”

Shikaku’s face twitched.

“Shikaku…”

Behind him, Akimichi Chōza whispered urgently.

He couldn’t understand what had gotten into his usually composed friend.

At that moment, a few ANBU operatives arrived to take the bodies away.

Fēngnán watched them silently, making no move to interfere.

“Everyone, disperse!”

The Third Hokage’s weary voice carried a hint of frost as he addressed the crowd.

“Please, wait a moment!”

A voice interrupted, and an Uchiha stepped forward.

The Hokage frowned at the man. “Uchiha Yatsushiro, what is it?”

After all that had happened today, the potential repercussions were already giving him a headache. His patience was wearing thin.

Even Fēngnán looked surprised.

He hadn’t planned for this.

Uchiha Yatsushiro wore a broad smile as he spoke. “I’m here to relay an order from Uchiha Clan Leader Fugaku. According to the Second Hokage’s directive, the Uchiha Clan Leader holds the authority over all appointments within the Konoha Police Force. Hence, Clan Leader Fugaku has officially issued the command that the position of Chief of the Konoha Police Force will be held by Deputy Clan Leader Itsuki."

"Uchiha Clan Leader, Uchiha Fugaku!"

"Deputy Clan Leader and Chief of the Konoha Police Force, Uchiha Itsuki!"

(End of chapter)