Fugaku had always known—
His brother-in-law was obsessed with physical training and had a remarkably sturdy physique. From a young age, Duan had built a foundation in taijutsu that exceeded that of many active-duty shinobi.
But Fugaku also knew something else:
The man couldn't form even the most basic hand seals, nor could he perform the simplest of the Three Basic Jutsu—Clone, Substitution, Transformation. In short, Duan was a ninjutsu illiterate.
In the shinobi world…
A ninja who lacks ninjutsu, regardless of how refined his taijutsu may be, is bound to hit a ceiling.
That was always Fugaku's belief.
Until now.
After hearing Inahura's detailed report, Fugaku's perception of Duan shifted completely. The feats Duan accomplished using only taijutsu were on par with elite jōnin. By conventional standards, he was at least a tokubetsu jōnin, if not more.
The Uchiha clan head, known for his cold and solemn demeanor, couldn't help but let a rare smile creep across his face.
His wife, Mikoto, had given him two sons—
Itachi and Sasuke, both obedient and gifted. Itachi was already hailed as a once-in-a-generation genius, while Sasuke showed extraordinary promise even as a child.
To show his appreciation for Mikoto's unwavering support, Fugaku had once considered violating protocol to create a position for Duan in the Konoha Police Force—a favor rarely extended.
But now, that favor was no longer needed.
Duan had earned his place through sheer merit.
The clan would not oppose the appointment now; in fact, some might celebrate it.
Fugaku resolved to arrange a meeting with Duan soon, to officially invite him into the department.
---
After reporting to Fugaku, Inahura had just exited the office when he ran into another prominent figure—
Uchiha Yashiro.
Second-in-command of the Konoha Police Force, Yashiro was famed for his sharp mind and command ability. Even Fugaku often admitted, in private, that Yashiro's analytical skills outmatched his own.
However—
Power was the coin of respect within the Uchiha clan.
Despite his brilliance, Yashiro had lost the bid for clan leadership in the past, and the sting of that defeat still lingered.
Moreover, the two men were ideologically at odds.
With pressure mounting from Konoha's elders, the Uchiha clan had fractured into factions:
Radicals and Moderates.
Yashiro was a leader among the radicals. He believed the time for diplomacy had passed, and that only direct confrontation—or even a coup—would restore the Uchiha to their rightful place in the village.
On the other hand, Uchiha Shisui—the clan's most powerful shinobi—championed moderation and dialogue. He still believed in reconciling with the village leadership.
Fugaku, stuck between the two camps, maintained a public stance of neutrality. But his actions—tempered responses, measured rhetoric—clearly aligned with the moderates.
For now, the moderate faction retained the upper hand.
Inahura, however, was a known radical.
He entered Yashiro's office and quietly repeated his earlier report about Duan.
Yashiro furrowed his brow, then asked thoughtfully:
"This Duan… wasn't he the one who moved out of the compound years ago? I heard he was displeased that his sister married Fugaku."
"That's the rumor," Inahura answered, eyes narrowing.
"Hmph."
Yashiro's eyes gleamed with calculation.
"Arrange a meeting. Let's evaluate his views. If even Fugaku's brother-in-law joins our cause… that'll corner him politically. He'll lose face among the elders."
Inahura nodded.
He didn't like Duan—but he respected strength.
And he understood this much: if the Uchiha rebellion were to succeed, unity was essential. Every capable clansman, especially one like Duan, needed to be brought into the fold.
---
Night fell over the Hidden Leaf Village. Stars blanketed the sky.
In the Uchiha district, a secluded cliff loomed above the Nanhe River, casting long shadows under the pale moonlight.
This place—hidden, serene—was known only to two people.
Itachi and Shisui.
It was their secret meeting spot.
Shisui stood at the edge of the cliff, hands behind his back, the breeze tugging at his cloak. As Itachi approached silently, Shisui turned and offered a soft smile.
"Itachi, congratulations on your entry into Anbu. How have you been adjusting so far?"
His tone was gentle, almost brotherly.
Itachi, still in his early teens, gave a slight nod. His expression, as always, remained calm—yet a glint of uncertainty flickered behind his eyes.
"Well, everything is fine with me." Itachi nodded and smiled sincerely in front of Shisui, who was like an older brother.
Itachi's entrance into the Anbu investigation squad had been completed with Shisui's assistance, and their bond had only deepened through that process.
After some light conversation and greetings—
Itachi hesitated briefly but then spoke up. He mentioned his uncle, Uchiha Duan, to Shisui.
"Heh, you're the second person today who's asked me about him," Shisui said in surprise.
Itachi was caught off guard and asked, "Who was the first?"
"The Third Hokage."
"..." Itachi went silent.
Seeing this, Shisui patted Itachi on the shoulder. "You know about Duan killing several spies from Amegakure today, right?"
Itachi nodded again.
Just earlier that evening, his father, Fugaku—who usually upheld strict silence during meals—broke family tradition. He spoke at the table and, to Itachi's surprise, praised Duan.
"If you're curious about Duan, why not visit him directly? He is your uncle, after all," Shisui said with a puzzled expression.
Itachi shook his head. "I already tried. Uncle... doesn't like me."
"I see."
Shisui understood immediately, then offered, "Want me to help you get in touch with him?"
Shisui wasn't particularly curious about Duan himself, but he deeply cared for Itachi. In his heart, Itachi was like a younger brother.
"Thank you, Shisui. But I'll handle it myself," Itachi replied, politely but firmly.
"Alright. I know you'll figure it out on your own."
Shisui smiled brightly.
This was, after all, a family matter. He had no intention of interfering more than necessary.
In the soft breeze, the two young Uchiha talked for a while longer. They made a pact: the next time a mission came up, they'd request to work together under the Anbu banner.
"Then it's settled," Shisui said with a wave as he turned to leave.
Under the pale moonlight, Itachi watched Shisui walk away and felt warmth flood his chest.
To him, Shisui was more than a friend. He was a mentor and a guiding light—someone who had instilled in him the true meaning of the Will of Fire.
...
Night had fully descended. Lights glowed warmly.
By the banks of the Konoha River, a lively commercial street buzzed with activity. The district was crowded with people enjoying food, entertainment, and shopping.
From afar, the sign of Barbecue Q glowed warmly, and the scent of sizzling meat drifted through the air, tempting passersby.
"Two guests—welcome," a smiling clerk greeted them as Duan and Samui stepped into the restaurant.
Unlike Ichiraku Ramen, which was budget-friendly and casual, Yakiniku Q was considered upscale. Only wealthier or high-ranking shinobi could afford to dine here regularly.
"Would the two of you like a private room? We have couple's seating as well. The atmosphere is more intimate and quiet—perfect for undisturbed dining," the clerk suggested, glancing between them.
Samui was startled and quickly waved her hands. "You've misunderstood—we're not..."
"Oh, I see. My apologies," the clerk said with a polite bow.
Samui darted a glance at Duan.
His face was utterly calm, his eyes unchanging—neither embarrassed nor amused.
Looking away, she scanned the room for seating.
But then, she froze—
Her eyes had locked on someone unexpected. A notable figure.