The Uchiha Clan Compound.
The Uchiha Clan Leader returned to the clan grounds, his expression more serious than usual.
To those unfamiliar with him, it might seem as though he was angry or contemplating some complex political matter of national importance.
However, those who knew him well were fully aware that he was, in fact, in a good mood.
And it was no wonder—truly proud and aloof individuals often displayed their happiness in ways that differed from ordinary people.
As the leader of the clan, he was especially mindful of maintaining his authoritative image, his emotions rarely visible on his face.
Before long, the Clan Leader arrived at the entrance of a secluded courtyard.
Knock... Knock... Knock...
The sound of knocking echoed.
"I'm coming," a gentle voice called from inside.
The door opened to reveal a beautiful woman with black hair. Standing behind her was a small, adorable boy who walked unsteadily.
"Good evening, Clan Leader."
The woman bowed respectfully.
In response, the Uchiha Clan Leader nodded without expression, his gaze lingering briefly on the innocent face of the little boy.
"Has Kagami returned yet?"
At his words, the woman instinctively shook her head, a trace of worry appearing on her face.
"Not yet. It's already dark, but there's still no sign of him."
"When he returns, let him know I need to speak with him. Tell him to come to my house tomorrow."
Before he could finish his sentence, a weary-looking Kagami Uchiha appeared at the end of the road.
Noticing him, the Clan Leader gave a slight nod to Kagami's wife before walking toward him.
"Kagami, I need to discuss something with you."
Kagami paused for a moment, then asked, "Clan Leader, it's so late—what's the matter?"
"There's an issue. Recently, some clan members have raised concerns, saying that our Konoha Police Force patrol teams are still too few. Many of our Chūnin-level clan members have nothing to do.
I was thinking—perhaps you could bring this up with the Third Hokage and request an increase in the number of patrol teams."
Hearing this, Kagami's expression immediately darkened.
Having already been overwhelmed with issues concerning the Uchiha Clan during the day, he was now being asked to approach Hiruzen about expanding the patrol teams. This felt like being set up for failure!
Noticing Kagami's troubled expression, the Clan Leader smirked coldly to himself before continuing, "If it's too difficult, then forget it. But in that case, could the ANBU assign some personnel to assist?
You know, as the Clan Leader, I often have to consider things from the perspective of our clan members."
Kagami nodded in agreement, too exhausted to notice the growing dissatisfaction brewing in the Clan Leader's heart.
"Clan Leader, it's not that I don't want to help, but I don't have much influence over the ANBU.
Besides, for those idle clan members, forming teams to take on missions should be no problem, right?"
Upon hearing this, the Clan Leader's face, hidden in the shadows, grew cold. He gave a perfunctory nod before turning and leaving without another word.
The next day, at the Naka Shrine.
Under the Clan Leader's summons, the entire Uchiha Clan had gathered.
The confused clan members looked at their leader, who was dressed in a black robe with the Uchiha fan crest embroidered on the back, chatting and laughing among themselves.
They had no idea what was about to happen.
Soon, everyone had arrived.
With his hands behind his back, the Uchiha Clan Leader turned to face the crowd, clearing his throat before speaking:
"Today, I've gathered everyone here to discuss something important.
It concerns whether Kagami Uchiha is a qualified member of the Uchiha Clan and whether he deserves to bear the Uchiha name!"
As soon as he finished speaking, a buzz of discussion erupted among the crowd.
Standing at the front of the group, Kagami's brow furrowed deeply. Known for his mild temperament, his eyes now showed a rare glint of menace.
"Clan Leader, what do you mean by this?"
"What do I mean?" The Clan Leader sneered in response, then turned to address the many Uchiha clan members who were eagerly awaiting his explanation, savoring the moment of being the center of attention.
"Kagami Uchiha, you are a disciple of the Second Hokage, a hero who saved Princess Tsunade, and a member of Konoha's leadership.
But how could you possibly understand the feelings of us ordinary Uchiha?
What do I mean? How laughable!
Kagami Uchiha, think about it. Ever since you were chosen by the Third Hokage to serve as an advisor to Konoha's leadership, what benefits have you brought to our clan?
When our clan members were bullied, where were you?
When our clan members were idle at home with nothing to do, where were you?
You enjoy your lofty status, but you've never once considered the plight of your clan members.
Even Fugaku, that kid, knows to step in and break up fights between clan members and outsiders, even if it means beating both sides!
And you? All you ever do is play the peacemaker, apologizing on behalf of the clan like some kind of hypocrite!"
Just as he was about to continue, a cold, slightly immature voice suddenly interrupted from the crowd:
"If you're going to talk, then talk properly. Drag me into this one more time, and I'll beat you up!"
Hearing this, the Clan Leader instinctively shrank back.
The other clan members exchanged amused glances, their eyes turning toward a corner of the room.
There, a black-haired boy sat cross-legged on the ground, looking thoroughly annoyed.
If there was anyone in the Uchiha Clan whom no one in the village dared to badmouth behind their back, it was undoubtedly Fugaku Uchiha.
This brat, with his over-the-top philosophy of "mutual love and understanding," had a unique way of handling disputes.
Who? You're an Uchiha? Well, if you dare to fight, you'll get a beating!
Who? You're a Hyūga? Heh, come on! Have you ever seen fists the size of clay pots?
Who? You're a Sarutobi? Didn't the Third Hokage teach you to cherish every comrade in the village? Well, I'll teach you instead!
Taking advantage of his young age, strong fists, and solid backing, this kid had managed to significantly improve public order in the areas he frequented.
Even Konoha's higher-ups were aware that this boy was a disciple of Rinjin and that his actions somehow benefited the village. So they simply turned a blind eye.
Moreover, this kid had a trait that set him apart from other Uchiha—he didn't hold grudges.
If he caught someone badmouthing him behind his back, he would drag them straight to the Root Division, loudly demanding that "Uncle Danzo" apply a Cursed Tongue Eradication Seal on them.
He was, in a word, a menace.
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