The Land of Iron, the Mountain Cemetery
After hearing Black Zetsu's words, Madara's eyes glimmered with interest.
"You know what's troubling me?" Madara asked, a faint curiosity in his voice.
Black Zetsu bowed slightly. "As your incarnation, Madara-sama, I can perceive exactly what Ban-sama is thinking. Your thoughts are currently tangled, and I am here to help you sort them out."
Madara remained silent for a moment, contemplating, then gave a slight nod of approval. Black Zetsu's assurance was enough to keep him attentive.
Black Zetsu continued, "Regarding Uchiha Yato, our observations suggest he is erratic in behavior but possesses exceptional capability. He has awakened the Mangekyō Sharingan, mastered composite ninjutsu, and has an enormous chakra reserve."
White Zetsu interrupted, "He seems like a younger version of Madara-sama. His strength and temperament bear a strong resemblance to yours at that age."
Madara's expression remained composed. Unlike before, White Zetsu's words did not provoke discomfort. Occasionally, he shook his head; other times, he nodded, reflecting on the assessment.
Black Zetsu continued, "Indeed, his abilities are formidable, yet his personality is eccentric. He is fiercely protective of the Uchiha clan, which mirrors your mindset during your younger years. However, he has not yet seen the clan's stone tablet."
Madara's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of the stone tablet. He realized that Yato's lack of access to it limited his understanding of the Uchiha's deeper history. Perhaps if Yato saw the tablet, he would fully comprehend Madara's own thoughts and intentions.
"Is there a way to let him see the stone tablet, or perhaps even become the clan leader?" Madara asked, his tone measured.
Black Zetsu shook his head. "It is nearly impossible. Yato does not aspire to be the clan leader, despite awakening the Mangekyō Sharingan. However, there may be a way to let him understand its contents indirectly. Then, he can make his own choice."
Satisfied with the assessment, Madara allowed a small smile to touch his lips. Yato was promising. The young Uchiha had the potential to develop into a valuable asset, even if he did not yet wield official power.
Next, they discussed Uchiha Obito.
"Uchiha Obito, through careful observation and Yato's projection, has demonstrated an attachment to a girl named Nohara Rin," Black Zetsu reported. "Under Yato's guidance, Rin successfully awakened her abilities, although her intellect is somewhat limited."
Madara nodded thoughtfully. "It aligns with typical Uchiha characteristics. She is emotionally inclined, easier to influence."
Finally, Black Zetsu spoke of Uchiha Shisui. "He is currently under Yato's care. His chakra extraction is extremely fast, and Yato has trained him rigorously. His talent, comprehension, and aptitude are exceptional."
"Because they are young, it is easier to guide and shape them," Madara concluded, studying all three candidates carefully. He finally settled on a plan: observe and let these potential pieces mature before making any moves.
At this moment, moving too openly in the ninja world would be unwise. These three would develop into the instruments he needed, and for now, patience was crucial.
Konoha Village, Hokage Building
Inside the Hokage Building, Sarutobi Hiruzen poured over official documents, frowning slightly. Recent events had forced him to temporarily dismiss Danzo Shimura from his post, largely to appease public and familial opinion.
Many of the Root's documents had been handed over to Hiruzen for processing. Among the pressing matters were the activities of Uchiha Yato. Although Yato had caused no recent incidents, his establishment of the Uchiha Kindergarten—a facility resembling both a younger version of the Ninja Academy and an evening training school—drew scrutiny.
Previously, Danzo had used the Root to spread negative information about the Uchiha, but the recent restructuring had mitigated much of this influence. The Konoha Court now handled complex or politically sensitive disputes, enhancing fairness and curbing misrepresentation. As a result, the Uchiha's reputation improved, being viewed as both fair and disciplined.
Despite the apparent progress, Hiruzen remained cautious. Danzo's suppression plan against the Uchiha had only partially succeeded. At the same time, a study group of Sand Ninjas was approaching Konoha, seeking to learn ninjutsu and medical skills. Their presence required careful management—not too close to the village center, yet not neglected entirely.
Hiruzen turned to Hatake Sakumo, who had been quietly observing. "Sakumo, what is your opinion of the current Uchiha?"
Sakumo stepped from the shadows, replying with measured respect, "Hokage-sama, I believe the Uchiha now pose no immediate threat. Their radical faction has faded, and they have avoided extreme actions. Both ninja and civilians have tempered their arrogance. In my view, they remain one of Konoha's strongest clans."
Hiruzen nodded silently. Though influenced by the Second Hokage's caution regarding the Uchiha, he understood the clan's current potential and stability. He shifted the conversation.
"Sakumo, the Sand Ninja are coming to study in Konoha. How do you assess their intentions?"
Sakumo considered carefully. "Officially, their visit is for learning. However, I suspect a secondary purpose: they are observing both Uchiha Yato and myself."
Hiruzen's eyes narrowed slightly. The suspicion was justified. Hatake Sakumo's past actions—particularly his encounters with the Sand Shinobi, where he earned the title 'White Fang of Konoha'—had left deep grievances. The Sand Ninja might also be assessing Yato, whose battlefield prowess was notorious. His nickname, "Nightmare Yato," reflected the psychological and physical torment he had inflicted during previous confrontations.
Hiruzen's contemplation was interrupted by Danzo Shimura, who entered with his usual imposing presence. Sakumo, understanding the tension, quietly excused himself.
Danzo did not waste time on pleasantries. "Hiruzen, the Uchiha are intolerable. Establishing the Uchiha Kindergarten is tantamount to creating a village within a village!"
Hiruzen maintained his composure. "State your proposal plainly."
"They are teaching ninjutsu. Let other major clans participate as well," Danzo argued. "By sharing instruction, we can reduce the influence of the Uchiha and safeguard the village's security."
Hiruzen simply nodded, not engaging in debate. Then, he asked, "What of the Sand Ninja's study? Are you aware of their intentions?"
Danzo responded confidently. "It is a test. The Third Kazekage is known as the strongest Kazekage. They wish to gauge Konoha's strength, as well as the capabilities of certain individuals—likely Yato and Sakumo himself."
Hiruzen considered this, nodding slowly. "I will assign a team of Anbu to receive them. You may assign your Root operatives to monitor, but not too loosely or tightly. Mitomon Yan will coordinate with you."
Danzo acknowledged the instructions and left, having voiced his concerns. Hiruzen muttered to himself, "Let's observe how the Uchiha respond tomorrow before taking further action."
The night in Konoha was quiet, but the tension between observation, power, and strategy lingered. The Uchiha continued to grow, seemingly innocuous, yet every movement had the potential to ripple across the village. Meanwhile, from the Land of Iron to the Hokage Building, the threads of fate wove together—a tapestry of strategy, ambition, and the subtle dance of power.
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