Shisui looked at Reiki, his expression a mix of confusion and concern. He needed clarity, especially since today's events had left him feeling powerless.
"You're wondering why Uchiha can enact such a significant change, right?" Reiki said, his tone casual.
"Yeah," Shisui nodded earnestly, eager for an explanation.
Since he started school at the age of five, Shisui had been deeply influenced by the Will of Fire. He dreamed of leading the Uchiha clan towards peaceful coexistence with the village. Yet, with time, as he gained recognition as the clan's genius, he witnessed escalating conflicts between his family and Konoha. The weight of his aspirations felt heavy on his shoulders, especially today, when everything he worked for seemed to mock him.
"It's simple, really. It's all about profit," Reiki replied, his eyes narrowing as he observed Shisui's reaction.
"Profit?" Shisui echoed, puzzled.
"Exactly. The conflict between the village and the Uchiha clan is fundamentally a clash of interests. The proud Uchiha clan doesn't want to live under the authority of others for long. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage's ambitions prevent him from easily relinquishing power."
Shisui frowned, trying to digest this. "But hasn't the Sandaime announced he will elect the next Hokage?"
Reiki stepped closer, ready to clarify. "Think about the candidates. Lord Orochimaru, the Sandaime's disciple, is one. Then there's Hatake Sakumo, who has stepped aside. Jiraiya, another of the Sandaime's disciples, is also in the mix. The only one left is the leader of the Uchiha clan."
Reiki paused, letting the implications sink in. "Do you still not understand?"
"Are you saying that regardless of who becomes Hokage, the true power in Konoha remains unchanged?" Shisui asked, realization dawning.
"Precisely," Reiki affirmed. "And the reason the Uchiha clan apologized today is because that apology has value. Despite everything, they still carry their pride."
Reiki held a somewhat disdainful view of the Uchiha clan. Despite their immense power, they often squandered it, caught up in internal strife and misguided ambitions for armed rebellion. If only the Uchiha had more courageous leaders, they might have avoided the tragedy of Itachi's actions.
"That means... the root of the issue remains," Shisui said, no longer confused but now filled with concern. He realized that changing such deep-seated issues would be a daunting task.
"I can help with this," Reiki said, a hint of embarrassment in his voice.
"What do you need me to do?" Shisui asked, intrigued.
"I need a test subject to see if my methods work on you Uchiha," Reiki replied, a smile creeping onto his face. "I had planned to use Obito, but now you seem more fitting."
"Okay, I'm in!" Shisui agreed without hesitation, ready to take action.
"And what about me?" Nozuki, who had been quietly listening, interjected, her eyes bright with curiosity. "Can I help with anything?"
"Actually, Nozuki, there's something you can do," Reiki said, his excitement evident. "I need you to coordinate with Brother Minato for a particular task when the time comes."
"Big Brother?" Nozuki was surprised. "Is he getting involved in this too?"
Reiki nodded, understanding her hesitation. "Yes, but it's for a different matter. You'll see."
Nozuki took a deep breath, realizing the significance of Minato's involvement. He was Jiraiya's disciple and had close ties to Sarutobi Hiruzen. Their small group of children navigating these high-stakes political waters would certainly become more complex with Minato involved.
"Reiki, what's in that scroll?" Nozuki asked, her curiosity piqued as Reiki handed it to her.
"Read it, but keep it confidential. You must side with me on this; otherwise..." Reiki added, giving her a pointed look.
"Okay!" Nozuki said, barely containing her excitement as she opened the scroll.
As she read, her expression shifted from curiosity to unease. "What is this?"
"Remember, you can't show it or let anyone know you've seen it. Act as if you know nothing," Reiki instructed firmly. "This is a necessary lesson for ninjas."
With that, Reiki ushered Shisui inside, determined to keep their experiments secret. Nozuki, feeling the weight of the scroll's contents, began to regret her curiosity. This was more than she had bargained for.
In the dim light of the courtyard, she realized she had stumbled upon information that could change everything. It was Kato Dan's information—a dangerous secret.
>>>>>
Gimme Power stones I'm Poor