Chapter 17 - Uchiha's move

// comment for development of story//

The Uchiha clan's reputation had been eroding since the Second Hokage's rule, where deep-rooted mistrust had left lasting scars that lingered under the Third Hokage's watch. They were monitored closely, their every action scrutinized as if weighed with suspicion.

Now, with Mikoto appointed as Kakashi's mentor, the clan saw a rare opportunity to regain some standing. They knew neither the Hokage nor Danzo would overlook even a minor misstep, so their plans had to be subtle, gradual—a quiet effort to build loyalty without raising suspicion. Quietly, they hoped this connection might, over time, restore trust and influence within Konoha.

The Second Elder refocused the conversation with a sharp tone. "Regardless, they won't let her stay in this role for long."

Kami's gaze hardened, his focus unwavering. "True. With tension at the borders, the Hokage has little choice right now. But he'll never allow an Uchiha to get too close to someone like Kakashi."

Tatsumaki folded his arms, concern shadowing his face. "How long do you think we have?"

Kami considered. "If we're fortunate, half a year. Without an urgent reason, perhaps a year and a half—two at the most. Beyond that, it's unlikely."

A heavy silence fell over the room. Each elder understood the stakes. They had a limited window to establish a bond with Kakashi before the Hokage intervened, and in that time, they would need to move carefully under the watchful eyes of the village.

As the quiet stretched, Mikoto allowed herself a moment to reflect. The clan's intentions were unmistakable. Kakashi's potential wasn't just a marvel—it was a rare opportunity to strengthen the clan's position. But the urgency was also clear; the Hokage wouldn't remain indifferent for long, and Danzo's interest in Kakashi was intense and tinged with suspicion.

Her grandfather finally broke the silence. "Mikoto, you know what this mission requires. This isn't just about training. We need you to form a connection, help him see that the Uchiha can be trusted. And perhaps, that his true potential could be realized with us."

Mikoto nodded, her expression unreadable. "I understand, Grandfather. Kakashi is observant—every interaction with him feels like a test. Subtlety will be key if we're to gain his trust."

The Third Elder scoffed lightly. "He's a child, no matter his talent. And he's Sakumo's son—a man who valued his companions above all. Use that."

But Tatsumaki spoke up, caution in his voice. "If he senses manipulation, he'll shut us out—and that could push him toward those who already watch him, Danzo included."

Mikoto silently agreed. Kakashi's sharpness had been clear in their first interactions; he was far more perceptive than most children his age. Any attempt at coercion would backfire. If she wanted his trust, she would have to earn it, step by step, proving herself as a mentor and ally.

Finally, Kami's voice cut through, firm and final. "Proceed carefully, Mikoto. But remember, time is against us. The boy's skill is both an asset and a threat, one we cannot afford to mishandle. Half a year—perhaps less. Make it count."

Mikoto bowed, accepting the weight of her mission. She knew the path was delicate and filled with risk. Kakashi would not be easily won, nor would he trust blindly. But for her clan's future and her own growing purpose, she would find a way to reach him.

As the meeting ended, Mikoto stepped out of the council room, her mind heavy with the gravity of her task. She caught sight of Tatsumaki and Yami deep in conversation, their voices just low enough to remain discreet.

"Some clan members on the border have gone missing," Tatsumaki said quietly, a note of worry in his tone.

Yami's brows furrowed as he responded. "How many?"

"Two," Tatsumaki replied. "Both were seasoned chunin, on the verge of becoming jonin."

Yami's expression darkened, matching Tatsumaki's pace as they walked down the corridor. "That's the third time in the past half-year. Someone is targeting us."

Tatsumaki's voice dropped to a murmur, but it was just loud enough for Yami to catch. "Could it be the Hokage?"

Yami thought carefully before replying. "I don't think so—not right now, at least. The Third Ninja War is on the horizon; he wouldn't risk something that could destabilize the village, even slightly. Not yet."

Once they reached the quiet seclusion of the backyard, Yami continued, his voice barely above a whisper. "Since the end of the Second Ninja War, the peace has been fragile as glass. Sakumo's death was like a stone dropped on it. The shockwaves have rippled through the village, stirring unease."

Tatsumaki nodded solemnly. "The other big villages are watching us closely, waiting for even a hint of weakness. Some are already testing the borders."

Yami's gaze grew distant, thoughtful. "We need to stay vigilant. The Hokage will keep Konoha steady, but... tensions within are just as dangerous as those outside. Whoever's targeting our people knows exactly when and where to strike. They want us fractured and unsteady—especially now, with the war's shadow looming closer."

Tatsumaki clenched his fists, his anger barely restrained. "If we keep losing valuable shinobi like this, we'll be weakened, and when the war finally arrives... we'll be vulnerable."

Yami's gaze sharpened, his voice low but resolute. "Which is why we can't let this go unchecked. We'll find out who's behind these attacks—inside or outside the village—and we'll respond. No one, especially not the Hokage or Danzo, can be allowed to underestimate the Uchiha."

For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of their task pressing upon them. They knew that in these times, any misstep could be fatal. But if they wanted to survive, to restore the respect they had lost, they would need to outmaneuver every enemy—seen and unseen.

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Author's pov

Should mc travel demon slayer?

Characters he should bring with him ( human & demons ) back?

Which timeline should he travel , tanjiro or kanae and her sister?