Hiruzen regarded Uchiha Shirogane with a perplexed expression. Uchiha Tetsuna, Uchiha Shirogane. Though he couldn't be certain if it was the handiwork of the Grass village, he had never heard of any Uchiha bearing such names in his discussions with the First Hokage or his esteemed sensei. Moreover, Their absence from historical accounts of the Uchiha clan's lineage only added to the mystery.
The scene unfolding before him felt utterly surreal. The absurdity of the situation left a distinct odor in the air—a scent reminiscent of grass scheme.
As the Third Hokage's words resonated, a collective confusion washed over those present. Even the fervent chants of the Uchiha ninjas, praising their ancestors and clan's glory, dwindled into silence. A myriad of thoughts churned within them, but they remained trapped in their throats, condensed into a single, incredulous word: "Grass?"
Was it possible that Tetsuna and Shirogane were not truly the esteemed ancestors of the Uchiha clan?
"What grass are you talking about? I don't know anything!" Uchiha Shirogane's eyelid twitched in response to the swift suspicion cast upon him.
Indeed, his choice of words had unwittingly fueled the skepticism surrounding him. Had he been more mindful, he would have chosen his words more carefully. However, time was of the essence, leaving little room for contemplation. Besides, suspicion was to be expected in such circumstances.
Nevertheless, Shirogane swiftly regained his composure, standing tall with hands clasped behind his back. His demeanor exuded dignity, and he held his head high, allowing his gray locks to flutter in the breeze. "I am the renowned Uchiha Shirogane. What need have I for another's name?"
A flicker of disappointment flashed in his eyes. "I must admit, seeing doubt cloud your judgment disappoints me greatly. In the tumultuous era of the Warring States, Uchiha of old faced far greater crises than what you are facing now. Yet, they stood resolute, unwavering in their convictions. And now, you..."
His gaze sharpened, piercing through the lingering doubt. "Do you trust the words of strangers over those of your own ancestors? It's no wonder Fugaku mentioned that the current Uchiha generation pales in comparison to its predecessors!"
Uchiha Fugaku's mouth also couldn't help but twitch at his words, 'Why am I being dragged into this?'
At that moment, a hush fell over the Uchiha clan members as they absorbed Uchiha Shirogane's impassioned words.
Indeed, why should they place their trust in the Third Hokage's assertions when they had an ancestor who emerged from the depths to fight for their cause? Hadn't Tetsuna just sacrificed himself to shatter the barrier that bound them?
Now, faced with this dilemma, who else could they turn to but their benevolent ancestor? With renewed conviction, the Uchiha ninjas rallied behind their forebearer, their voices echoing with determination, "Ancestor!"
Observing the Uchiha clan's steadfast resolve, Hiruzen's expression shifted once more. Rising to his feet, he intended to counter their fervor with words of reason.
However, before he could intervene, Uchiha Shirogane raised his fist once more, rallying his kin with a resounding cry, "For the glory of the Uchiha!"
In response, a chorus of voices erupted, echoing throughout the territory, "For the glory of the Uchiha!"
Yes, regardless of the obstacles they faced, their ultimate goal remained unchanged—to uphold the honor and prestige of the Uchiha clan. With their unified roar reverberating through the air, they stood ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Akihiko's nod of approval was accompanied by trembling arms as he bellowed, "Whoever claimed that one generation is inferior to the last clearly knows nothing. I see wave upon wave of strength rising from your ranks. You honor the Uchiha name."
Gazing upon the Uchiha members with pride, he urged them onward, "Maintain this fervor, my fellow Uchiha. We may face our demise today, but we shall not be remembered as traitors. No, we shall fight to the very end for our honor."
"Forward! Let the Uchiha clan's banner fly high and free!" With a rallying cry, Uchiha Shirogane surged forward again, his comrades following suit with faces ablaze with determination. The tide of battle shifted once again, a relentless force sweeping forth.
Even the ninjas from other clans, who had joined the fray in solidarity, watched in awe at the Uchiha's unwavering resolve. Truly, the Uchiha clan, once equal in stature to the mighty Senju clan, proved themselves worthy of their reputation.
However, at that critical moment, the Third Hokage took a deep breath, disregarding any suspicions regarding the Grass-nin's involvement. With a decisive wave of his hand, he commanded, "Quash the rebellion swiftly. Ensure not a single Uchiha escapes this place!"
"Yes, sir!" Responding to the Third Hokage's order, the Konoha ninjas mobilized without hesitation. Both factions clashed once more, each side fiercely battling for supremacy. Just as Akihiko pondered his next move, contemplating whether to incite further fervor among the Uchiha ranks,
"Have all the other Uchiha clan members evacuated?" The resonant voice, aged and authoritative, caught Uchiha Shirogane off guard. Turning to see Uchiha Setsu's approach, he was struck by astonishment.
Before Shirogane could utter a word, Uchiha Setsu's expression softened, revealing a hint of relief beneath the weathered facade. "Ah, I understand now. So that's what Fugaku meant," he murmured, casting a faint smile toward Shirogane. "I entrust our future to you, our esteemed ancestor."
With a solemn nod, Setsu's demeanor shifted, his gaze steeling with resolve. "However, it's time for you to depart as well. The impending conflict belongs to the Uchiha clan and Konoha alone." With that declaration, Setsu surged forward, ready to face his last battle.
Upon hearing this, Akihiko was momentarily struck by the wisdom and resolve of the Uchiha elder. It became evident that many within the clan had begun to recognize the futility of their rebellion. After all, Even if they were to emerge victorious, it would come at the cost of alienating themselves further from other ninja clans. Watching the escalating conflict with a heavy heart, Akihiko sighed deeply, choosing to remain silent, his thoughts lingering in the turmoil of the moment.
Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Uchiha Fugaku, visibly moved by the unity of his clan, allowed a rare smile to grace his features. These were his own kin, fighting for what they believed in.
"Cease all actions, Fugaku-sama," urged Uchiha Shisui, his gaze unwavering as he addressed their leader. "Continuing down this path will only lead to the demise of the Uchiha clan, with everyone paying the ultimate price. Is this the legacy you wish to leave behind?"
With calm determination, Fugaku nodded in acknowledgment. "The Uchiha clan will survive," he affirmed. "One day, a leader will rise to restore our honor and glory. However..." His voice trailed off briefly, "You may not live to witness that day."
Upon hearing this, Shisui was momentarily taken aback, "Fugaku-sama," he inquired, his tone tinged with determination, "Are you implying that you would eliminate me? However, I must caution you not to underestimate my resolve."
"No, Shisui. In this conflict, it is I who will meet my end," Fugaku clarified, his gaze steady as he met Shisui's eyes. "These eyes are a heavy burden, even for our esteemed clan. Prolonged use will lead to blindness. I am nearing my limit."
"Fugaku-sama..." Shisui's surprise was evident as he understood what Fugaku meant. However, his tone turned serious once again as he voiced his disagreement. "I can't agree with you!"
With resolve, Shisui charged forward once more. "If you believe I won't live to witness it, then I shall prove you wrong. I will persevere and bear witness to the future!"
Meanwhile, Fugaku fell into a contemplative silence as he observed Shisui's unwavering determination. Despite Shisui's undeniable talent, it saddened Fugaku to acknowledge that the brightest stars of their clan often failed to trust in their own kin. They remained oblivious to the clan's struggles, the discrimination they faced, and the collective pain endured by their brethren. To them, the clan seemed ungrateful to the village.
However, such thoughts were fleeting. Fugaku remained confident that the Uchiha Clan would thrive in the Grass Village, surpassing their previous achievements. He envisioned a future where the world would once again recognize the glory of the Uchiha Clan.
Summoning his Susano'o, Fugaku charged forward, acknowledging that he was nearing his limit. As he faced his ultimate battle, he glanced at Shisui, relieved to see that Shisui had not resorted to using his Mangekyo Sharingan's Kotoamatsukami ability against him.
With a calm demeanor, Fugaku addressed his formidable opponent. "Show me what you're capable of, Uchiha Shisui. Let us engage in this final clash."
…
After a while, Uchiha Obito's gaze shifted towards the nearby clan compound, where the remnants of his former home lay in ruins. A pang of nostalgia washed over him, briefly coloring his expression with melancholy. "It's almost over..."
"Indeed, it is." Standing beside him, Akihiko nodded, his own emotions stirred by the sight of the Uchiha Clan's final stand.
Obito remained silent, his eyes lingering on the distant battleground where his clan members fought for their last shred of honor. Emotions tugged at his heart, but he kept his thoughts to himself. Eventually, breaking the silence, he inquired, "What about Uchiha Shirogane?"
Akihiko arched an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on his lips. "You can't even bring yourself to call me 'ancestor'?"
"...Cut it out," Obito retorted, shooting Akihiko an irritated glance. "What's our next move?"
"It's high time we made our exit," Akihiko remarked, casting a glance towards the Konoha Village ahead. He sighed and shook his head in disappointment, then spat disdainfully on the ground. "Supposedly the first great ninja village, yet it's in such a sorry state."
Obito couldn't help but roll his eyes at Akihiko's remark. 'And who do you think is responsible for this mess?'