Supporting such a large, bloated family with only the Sarutobi clan's assets and income from various positions was proving unrealistic. Unfortunately, even the First Hokage couldn't simply transfer money from the treasury to the clan without causing more problems down the line. Faced with limited options, the Hokage could only make sacrifices for the family by increasing death pensions and cutting corners elsewhere.
Shinki, aware of the financial struggles plaguing the Hokage, returned home after their discussion. Upon entering, he found Uchiha Fugaku and Hyuga Hiashi waiting in his living room.
"It's done," Shinki announced, gesturing reassuringly as he sat down across from them.
Hiashi spoke first, his voice tinged with concern. "Young clan leader, if the Hyuga clan makes a mistake next time, the higher-ups will certainly keep a closer watch on us."
Shinki nodded but turned his gaze toward Fugaku. "As for Uchiha..." He paused, leaning forward. "I hope the doves and hawks in your clan can remain calm and honest for now. Better yet, consider dispersing them entirely. A family divided between such factions is inviting trouble."
He continued with a firm tone, "Some of the old guard should be retired. Don't fear chaos—use this opportunity to solve internal problems. If you don't address it, these troubles will keep resurfacing."
Shinki's words were sharp, but Fugaku understood the truth in them. The so-called "doves" and "hawks" within Uchiha were nothing but remnants of outdated ideologies, hindering the clan's progress. The leaders of these factions were often elders—high-ranking, stubborn, and resistant to change. Though they weren't as corrupt as the Hyuga elders, they were no less obstructive.
"If you continue to let them run unchecked, who knows what disasters might arise?" Shinki added, his gaze unwavering. "You need to be decisive. Use the same ruthlessness you'd apply to an enemy, but aim it inward this time. Handle the instability before it grows."
Fugaku clenched his fists, tension clear on his face. These elders were once heroes of the clan, but the family's evolution demanded change. If they could cooperate and step aside willingly, Fugaku was willing to show them respect. If not, he'd have no choice but to remove them—hawk or dove, it didn't matter.
"I'll handle it," Fugaku said resolutely.
Shinki smiled faintly and gestured toward the door. "Good. Take this news back to your clans. That's all for now."
Hiashi and Fugaku rose, bowing slightly before leaving. Once they were gone, a figure emerged from the kitchen—a beautiful woman carrying a plate.
"Pakura," Shinki greeted her with a smile, "how's the work in the pharmaceutical department treating you?"
The woman frowned. It was Pakura, who had been assigned to manage operations in the pharmaceutical department as part of her training. Originally, Shinki had planned to bring her to the Five Kage Summit, but her skills were better suited for the tightly-controlled pharmaceutical unit. Unfortunately for Pakura, this meant months of tedious management work.
"It's terrible!" Pakura exclaimed, her frustration spilling over. "I've been stuck there for months! Eating, sleeping, and working in the same place every day. I'm a warrior, not a manager! When can I leave that cursed department?"
Shinki chuckled. "When you start feeling like a part of Konoha, you can leave."
Pakura's eye twitched. "Are you purposely making this difficult for me? Am I not a member of Konoha now? Do I even have a choice?"
Placing the plate down heavily on the table, she regretted preparing dinner so early. If she had known Shinki would tease her like this, she would've tossed it all into the trash.
"Sister Pakura, you're back!" a cheerful voice called from the doorway.
Kushina, dragging her tired body inside, lit up at the sight of Pakura. Before her assignment to the pharmaceutical department, Pakura had spent much time with Kushina, forming a close bond. Unlike Tsunade, Pakura had the patience and nurturing demeanor that made her a perfect elder-sister figure for Kushina.
"Kushina, have you been overtraining?" Pakura asked, eyeing the dirt and exhaustion evident on the younger girl's face.
Kushina laughed nervously, scratching her head. "Well, it's part of my deal with the Nine Tails. If I work hard and train diligently, I'll master its power sooner and gain my freedom!"
Pakura raised an eyebrow. "Freedom?"
Kushina puffed out her chest proudly. "The Nine Tails said I'm progressing quickly. I'll be free in no time!"
In the sealed space, the Nine Tails rolled its eyes but said nothing. While Kushina's progress was noteworthy, her boast about freedom was premature. Still, the fox allowed her moment of pride.
Pakura sighed. "Kushina, you're still young. Overtraining could harm your growth. Moderation is key."
Her fierce tone made Kushina grin sheepishly, but Shinki only smirked.
"Does this woman want to rebel against Konoha?" Pakura muttered under her breath, glaring at Shinki with suspicion.
Shinki raised an eyebrow, amused. "Careful, Pakura. I might take that personally."
The room fell into a brief but lighthearted silence. Pakura, while frustrated, knew deep down that her role in the pharmaceutical department was necessary—for her growth and for Konoha. Still, that didn't mean she wouldn't fight for a way out.
>>>>>
200 Chapters ahead available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
50% discount code (DDBFC)
Gimme power stonesssss
Also, leave a review please and check out my new story
[Naruto: Maelstrom Of the Uzumaki]