The Enemy is in the Hokage Building
After school, Naruto arrived at the Uchiha Clan District at Sasuke's invitation.
The Uchiha Clan District, often referred to as the Uchiha Compound, held a unique status within Konohagakure. It was originally located closer to the village center, but after the Nine-Tails' attack, the Uchiha were relocated to the outskirts—a decision that many clan members resented. Though the new location covered a vast area, its distance from the village's bustling center symbolized their growing isolation.
As Naruto stepped through the gate that separated the clan from the rest of the village, he officially entered Uchiha territory. Sasuke, eager to show him around, enthusiastically introduced different locations within the compound.
"Naruto, that's Uncle Inabi's home. He has a terrible temper but is surprisingly kind to children."
"That's Sister Izumi's house. She's always with Brother Itachi, which means he never has time to train with me."
"That used to be a canteen. An elderly woman ran it, but after her grandson died in the last war, she passed away alone. It was her father who found her body."
"And over there—that's Brother Shisui's home. He's like an older brother to Itachi, but he's always been a bit mysterious."
As Sasuke spoke, Naruto imagined the faces of those he mentioned, gaining a clearer understanding of the Uchiha clan's dynamics. This visit wasn't just about friendship—he had accepted Sasuke's invitation to gather more insight into the Uchiha. Only by personally observing their way of life could he prepare for whatever came next.
Naruto's gaze shifted to a tall building opposite the Uchiha district, and he asked curiously, "Sasuke, what's that place? Is it important to your clan?"
Sasuke followed Naruto's line of sight and shook his head. "I don't know. It's been there since I was born."
Naruto nodded but made a mental note. If even Sasuke didn't know its purpose, it likely served as an ANBU surveillance post keeping watch over the Uchiha. The clan, suspected of plotting a coup, had lived under constant observation. Yet, despite being under surveillance, the Uchiha still maintained members within the highest levels of Konoha's government, including those stationed at the Hokage's side.
To some extent, this entire situation felt like a cruel joke.
As Naruto recorded details of the compound's layout, Sasuke led him toward the clan leader's mansion. He was eager to meet Sasuke's family.
---
ANBU Surveillance Room – Uchiha Compound
The person assigned to monitor the Uchiha was none other than Itachi Uchiha.
As he observed the surveillance feed, Itachi's brows furrowed upon spotting Sasuke and Naruto within the clan grounds. His expression grew tense.
Naruto actually accepted Sasuke's invitation? Did Shisui not inform the Third Hokage about this?
Though both Itachi and Shisui were members of the ANBU, their allegiances differed. Shisui remained loyal to the Third Hokage, while Itachi worked directly under Danzo.
Before Itachi could act, another ANBU operative—one from the Root faction—noticed the footage.
"Naruto Uzumaki inside the Uchiha Compound?" the Root agent sneered. "What are you Uchiha planning? A rebellion?"
Itachi turned to him with an icy glare. "Whether the Uchiha rebel or not is for the Hokage to decide—not Root." His tone was sharp but controlled. "We will continue monitoring as instructed."
The Root agent scoffed. "I will report this to our leader. You'd better not interfere."
---
Hokage's Office
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, sat behind his desk, listening to Shisui Uchiha's latest report on his clan.
As Shisui detailed the growing hostility among the Uchiha, Hiruzen sighed, rubbing his temple. The situation was worsening. Funding for the Uchiha Police Force had been cut, leading to rising tensions. If the village relied solely on ANBU for security, it would provoke further resentment.
In the past, Hiruzen could rely on alliances with other clans to check the Uchiha's power. But after the Hyuga Affair, in which Kumo attempted to kidnap Hinata, the Hyuga clan withdrew from village politics. Other clans had also distanced themselves, unwilling to take sides.
The only silver lining was that Itachi and Shisui acted as double agents, providing intelligence to the Hokage's office. Their efforts had thus far prevented open conflict.
Shisui placed a scroll on the desk. "These are the Uchiha's latest demands. The clan wants greater representation in village affairs."
Before Hiruzen could respond, an ANBU agent entered the office and knelt.
"Hokage-sama, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki has entered the Uchiha Compound without permission. My subordinates are unsure how to proceed and await your orders."
At these words, the ANBU agent glanced toward Shisui, whose posture stiffened.
Hiruzen turned to Shisui, his expression unreadable. "You were about to say something?"
Shisui hesitated before admitting, "This is the matter I wanted to report, Hokage-sama."
For a moment, silence filled the room.
Hiruzen studied Shisui carefully. He trusted the young Uchiha, who was a descendant of Kagami Uchiha and carried the Will of Fire. But past betrayals had made him cautious—even his own students had turned against him.
Shisui continued, "Yesterday, Sasuke mentioned at home that he planned to invite Naruto. I didn't think Naruto would accept so soon. This is simply a visit between two children; it has nothing to do with the Uchiha's plans."
Hiruzen nodded, his suspicion easing. It was unlikely that Uchiha would harm Naruto.
But others might.
With that thought, Hiruzen looked at the ANBU operative and issued a firm order. "Assemble the ANBU and Shadow Guards. We're heading to the Uchiha Compound."
Shisui hesitated before speaking. "Hokage-sama… is this necessary?"
Hiruzen placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I trust you and the Uchiha, but Naruto has been targeted before. We can't afford to be careless."
"If you're concerned, you may accompany me as my guest."
Shisui remained silent, understanding that this was the best way to prevent an outright confrontation. Without another word, he followed Hiruzen as they set out for the Uchiha Compound.
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