After several days of internal deliberation, the Uchiha clan decided to make a cautious move. Uchiha Fugaku, careful not to act recklessly, sought out Uchiha Mikoto and used her visit as a pretext to approach Shinki.
"No need to be so formal; make yourselves at home," Shinki said with a casual wave before heading to the kitchen for a drink. Returning with a bottle of juice, he took his seat on the couch.
Kushina noticed Shinki's subtle glance and took the hint. Smiling, she approached Mikoto and led her upstairs, leaving Shinki alone with Fugaku in the living room.
Once the two women were out of earshot, Uchiha Fugaku spoke with an apologetic tone. "My Lord, I apologize for coming without notice."
"It's fine," Shinki replied nonchalantly. He bore no particular grudge against the Uchiha, provided they didn't cause problems. After all, the Uchiha clan was known for its volatility.
Settling into his chair and taking a sip of his juice, Shinki regarded Fugaku. "So, Young Patriarch, are you here for a social visit, or...?"
The subtext was clear: if you have something to say, say it.
Understanding that Shinki wasn't interested in idle talk, Fugaku hesitated only briefly before speaking directly. "Sir, what do you think of Uchiha's current position in the village?"
Shinki met Fugaku's gaze, unimpressed. "Uchiha's issues have been around since the village's foundation. Madara's defection only fueled distrust, leading to the ongoing tension with the Hokage faction. You know this, and so do I. If you have something specific to discuss, say it outright."
Fugaku took a deep breath, realizing he had no choice but to be forthright. "My father's health has deteriorated due to old injuries, and he can no longer effectively lead. I have taken full responsibility for family affairs. Personally, I hope to see Uchiha integrated into the village rather than standing apart from it. But the Hokage faction holds deep-rooted prejudices against us. That's why I need your help."
Fugaku's voice dropped, earnest. "Only you can change Uchiha's standing in the village."
The current patriarch's failing health meant Fugaku would soon become the official leader and head of the police force. To bridge the divide between Uchiha and the village, he needed allies outside of the traditional power structures.
Shinki leaned back, eyes scrutinizing Fugaku. "Tsunade and I hold no bias against Uchiha. But to be frank, integrating Uchiha and helping them improve their standing offers little benefit to us."
If Uchiha wanted assistance, there had to be something in it for Shinki and Tsunade. Otherwise, it would be a one-sided effort.
Fugaku's brow furrowed in thought. After a moment, he lifted his head and said, "Uchiha is not lacking in funds or resources. We can offer financial and material support. Additionally, we can mobilize our ninjas to assist you."
Shinki shook his head, a small, disinterested smile playing at his lips. "Funds and supplies are not an issue for Tsunade or me. And as for mobilizing Uchiha..."
Shinki's eyes met Fugaku's with a knowing look. "If Tsunade or I were to give an order, would the Uchiha dare refuse?"
Uchiha was not like the Ino-Shika-Cho alliance, whose support brought tangible benefits and alliances. Aligning with Uchiha was a gamble with little reward. Even if they weren't officially allied, Uchiha wouldn't defy direct orders from Konoha's leadership.
As for funds and resources, they were irrelevant. Shinki and Tsunade didn't have families or clans that needed extensive support. Their expenses were personal, and the village covered mission-related costs.
"So, what purpose would Uchiha's offerings serve?" Shinki continued. "I'm not about to use Uchiha's money to fund the Anbu. That would be absurd."
Even if Shinki were inclined to form alliances, Uchiha wouldn't receive the same treatment as the Ino-Shika-Cho. When the latter offered support, it was during difficult times, but accepting Uchiha now would only invite complications.
"My Lord..." Fugaku stood, desperation flickering in his eyes.
Shinki raised a hand to cut him off. "The war outside our borders requires stability within. Uchiha brings too many complications and internal conflicts. At this time, integrating Uchiha would cause more issues than it would solve. Besides, I haven't seen genuine sincerity from your clan. Please, go home."
Fugaku's expression darkened, realizing Shinki was unmoved. Uchiha's attempt to negotiate with some money and manpower wasn't enough. The clan's desire to shift its position needed more than half-hearted offers.
When things deteriorated further after the Nine-Tails' attack, even the Uchiha would be forced to make more drastic concessions, only to be turned away by the established power bloc.
Uchiha Fugaku's position was precarious, but he hadn't suffered enough to understand the harsh realities of their standing in the village. For now, Shinki was content to watch from the sidelines.
Meanwhile, hidden near the staircase on the second floor, Kushina and Uchiha Mikoto had overheard the entire exchange.
"Mikoto, is Uchiha's situation really that dire?" Kushina whispered, concern lacing her voice.
Mikoto's eyes were solemn as she nodded, understanding the uphill battle her clan faced. Shinki, who had sensed their presence, pretended not to notice, and Fugaku, unaware, departed with heavy steps.
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