Chapter 23: The Only Choice

"Shisui, do you know what you're saying?"

While Yuhara was leisurely reading on the streets of Konoha, Shisui found himself in a silent confrontation with an elder of the Uchiha clan, Uchiha Sō. Sō's expression was one of utter disbelief, as if he couldn't comprehend what he had just heard.

Shisui had been raised under Sō's guidance. Many of Shisui's ideas and beliefs had been instilled by Sō, who treated him like a close relative. Their shared belief was in the harmonious coexistence of the clan and the village. They had never wavered from this ideal and had always strived to make it a reality. They sought to establish communication with Konoha's leadership, hoping to gain genuine acceptance and recognition.

However, the aftermath of the Nine-Tails incident had driven a wedge between the Uchiha and the village, a rift that seemed impossible to mend. Within the clan, discontent was rampant due to the village's treatment of them. Their only hope lay in Shisui, who they believed could win the trust of the Third Hokage and other Konoha ninjas, thereby restoring the clan's honor.

Shisui was a descendant of Kagami Uchiha, the most exceptional member of their faction, having even awakened the Mangekyou Sharingan. Few in the clan possessed the Sharingan, let alone the Mangekyou. In Sō's view, Shisui was likely the only one with such power. Moreover, Shisui had managed to bring Fugaku's son, Itachi, into their fold, giving them additional leverage.

Despite not favoring Itachi's village-first mentality, Sō had pinned his hopes on Shisui. Yet, after Shisui returned from his mission with Yuhara, he spoke of a new plan, a plan so radical and audacious that it sent chills down Sō's spine.

"I know exactly what I'm saying," Shisui affirmed, looking intently at Sō.

Shisui's words were resolute: "Our clan is in chaos, divided beyond reconciliation. We cannot unite to face our challenges because of the clan head's indecisiveness. If it weren't for his inaction, we would have already been united. Instead, we are mired in endless internal strife over differing beliefs."

Sō, though seasoned in the clan's political machinations, couldn't help but tremble at the gravity of Shisui's proposal. The idea of ousting Uchiha Fugaku was tantamount to a coup.

"Madness!" Sō interrupted, lowering his voice. "Do you realize what you're suggesting? This is a rebellion! And who do you propose to replace Fugaku? Who has the qualifications?"

Shisui didn't waver. "No, the majority in the clan are not the hardliners. The real power lies with the ordinary Uchiha. True authority stems from their obedience. If they recognize us and refuse to follow the hardliners, the hardliners lose their claim to majority."

Sō was stunned by Shisui's assertive clarity. It was as if Shisui had become a stranger, his words sharp and unyielding. Yet, Sō couldn't deny the truth in Shisui's analysis of the clan's dynamics and Konoha's stance.

Shisui continued, "We've been wrong all along. Both us and the hardliners. We've been so consumed with internal conflict that we've neglected true unity. The Third Hokage and his advisors, inheritors of the Second Hokage's distrust, will never accept us unless we present a united front with clear political goals. We must make Konoha hear our voice, or we are truly doomed."

Sō reluctantly admitted to himself the validity of Shisui's points, realizing that Yuhara's influence had been pivotal in shaping Shisui's new perspective.

"Is this Yuhara's doing?" Sō asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and resignation.

"Yes," Shisui confirmed. "Yuhara has helped me see the broader picture. He showed me our clan and the village's realities. He believes that only we can lead the clan to prosperity, but I believe he is the only choice, my choice."

Shisui took a deep breath, his expression grave as he delivered the final revelation. "He also has the Mangekyou Sharingan."

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