Year 4 A.N.B. March 11 ~ 10:40 P.M ~ Bunker
"We're here, now what?"
Menma dropped from Shisui's back. He had asked him to piggyback him and use the body flicker to move instantaneously toward the bunker so they could go unnoticed by the Anbu and the cameras.
"I want to establish that this will be our moving point whenever we need to act together. Here, we'll be safer and be able to discuss anything calmly."
Shisui looked around, noticing the dim lighting and the faint echoes in the underground chamber. "What is this place anyway? Where does it go to?"
Menma gestured toward the aged walls. "An old bunker, probably constructed around the 1st and the 2nd great ninja war, and it connects to some places of the village, but most of the routes are blocked off by earth and debris from old landslides, so it's dangerous to go through them."
"Fortunately, the exit leads directly to an old road that will take us to the neighboring town, providing us with a quick escape route if needed."
"Why would we need to leave?"
"Shisui, it has been a while since I noticed a stir in the Anbu who has been watching the Uchiha compound. They must not like that both Jinchuriki are goofing around there. They were careful not to approach us too much the other day but luckily, that allowed me to tell you everything."
"But how does that passage come into play in all this?"
"I have the feeling that the place where she is sealed must be around the land of fire but it's not here in the village. That's how the passageway will help us get there unnoticed."
Shisui studied the surroundings, noting the training dummies and the blackboard. "Hm, still, there's a few stuff here. Some training dummies, a blackboard... Where did you get all this?"
"I stole it," Menma replied casually, watching for Shisui's reaction. The Uchiha visibly flinched.
"You stole it? How?"
"I fooled the shop owners with transformation and sometimes, raided them at night. By the time they noticed, I was a goner."
A brief moment of silence hung in the air before Shisui chuckled. "You truly are a piece of work, huh?"
"Hn. I wished we could use this place for training but I've got the feeling our time is running short. I still want to learn all those things I asked but it can only be during certain hours too..."
"Why is that?" Shisui questioned, curious about the time constraints.
"Listen, this is important, but you must not take actions that would deviate from your usual duties around, 10 A.M, 4 P.M, and 10 P.M."
"The reason is that Hiruzen uses these times to look at his crystal ball to spy on the village and he might discover everything. And yeah, he uses that to spy on girls, too. Tales tell that he has a disciple that publishes depraved books."
"Wait, what? Lord Hokage has a... crystal ball? And a disciple writing depraved books?" Shisui stammered, caught off guard by the unusual information. He couldn't fathom the idea that Hiruzen, the respected leader of the village, would be involved in such peculiar activities.
A nervous chuckle escaped Shisui as he scratched the back of his head, a visible sign of his discomfort. "You're messing with me, right? The Hokage can't be that... eccentric."
"You still don't believe me after I told you how his inertia led to the downfall of the Uchiha?"
"So Lord... no, Hiruzen got the will to move to spy on girls but not to talk to Lord Fugaku?" Shisui asked, now refraining from showing his previous respect to the figure of the Hokage.
"Priorities, right?" Menma replied with a slight amount of sarcasm. "He knows what goes around the village but to avoid fatigue, he doesn't do anything."
Shisui closed his eyes, a mix of disbelief and anger etched on his face. "This is an outrage..." he muttered, his voice a low growl. That information had hit a nerve, stirring a storm of conflicting emotions within him.
Shisui's expression turned darker. His hand clenched into a fist, and the once playful atmosphere surrounding the conversation had dissipated. The mention of Hiruzen's selective actions, especially in the face of the Uchiha tragedy, had ignited a fire within Shisui, fueling a sense of betrayal and resentment.
"What kind of leader would prioritize such trivial matters over the lives of his own people?" Shisui's words held a seething intensity, his loyalty to the village shaken by the newfound awareness of its leader's questionable decisions.
"I told you, this village treats the Uchiha as outsiders; they don't care what happens to them as long as the village can proceed peacefully."
Shisui's expression hardened as he spoke with conviction, "Menma, tell me about that girl who can turn this situation around. I'm determined to help you change our fate."
Menma smiled internally, 'Good, good...' He thought with satisfaction. "Right, about that..." He initiated, giving a short brief on what they needed to do.
...
"I don't think invading Hiruzen's house is a good idea..." Shisui spoke.
"Really? But the Uchiha were going to use you to kidnap him and you're worried about a tour of his house?"
"It's not a tour, we're going to steal from him but you've got a point..." Shisui spoke, shutting himself.
"We're not taking back anything that could be traced back to where it belongs; we'll just take the information. We don't want Hiruzen to notice that his house has been searched. Any mistakes and we can say goodbye to our plan"
Year 4 A.N.B. March 11 ~ 11:10 P.M ~ Hiruzen Sarutobi's residence
Menma and Shisui approached the Hokage's house with deliberate steps, choosing the daytime when Hiruzen would likely be attending to his duties elsewhere. The midday sun bathed the village in a warm glow, casting short shadows as the streets buzzed with activity.
Within the distance, they located the Hokage's residence which was a double round-shaped three-storied building that on top held a large painting of the symbol of fire.
'It's here... just like in the first chapter of the manga...' Menma thought with marvel.
Shisui momentarily glanced at Menma who was piggybacked on him, "Are you sure there are not any sources of vigilance on his residence?"
"Not completely but better safe than sorry; let's take a look."
As they neared the residence, Menma gestured for Shisui to keep a lookout. They blended into the steady flow of villagers going about their business, avoiding any undue attention.
The Hokage's residence stood imposing, but there was no sign of guards. The duo found a side entrance, less frequented and away from prying eyes. The door creaked softly as they slipped inside.
Once within the expansive residence, Menma and Shisui marveled at the grandeur of the place. Ornate decorations adorned the walls, telling tales of a village's history. They moved with a careful blend of stealth and curiosity, searching for the room that held the scrolls they sought.
Hallways stretched out like veins in the body of the building, and the rooms were filled with artifacts and memorabilia. Paintings depicted past Hokages, their watchful eyes observing the intruders.
As they explored, the duo reached a room with bookshelves towering with scrolls. The air was thick with the scent of ancient parchment.
"This is where the answers lie, just like my vision," Menma murmured, scanning the shelves. "We need to find the scroll about her before someone gets here."
"There's gotta be historic records of the incident around here somewhere as a countermeasure. The Sarutobi were partly responsible for sealing her away there's no way they wouldn't have recorded this event" Menma murmured, and Shisui nodded.
Shisui nodded in agreement, and they set to work. Dividing the task, Menma created three shadow clones, each navigating a different section of the room. Shisui, with a subtle activation of his Sharingan, produced a single clone to assist him.
"Remember to carefully move the scrolls so as not to leave evidence that someone was here," Shisui advised in a hushed tone.
"I know," Menma replied as he and his clones started carefully moving the scrolls to check them.
Menma's keen eyes caught sight of a particularly large scroll tucked away on the lower shelf. It seemed to emanate a subtle aura, and his instincts hinted that it might be the Scroll of Seals he was seeking.
However, a glance at Shisui revealed that he was engrossed in his search, the concentration etched on his face. Menma hesitated, weighing the temptation to unravel the mysteries within that oversized scroll against the urgency of their mission.
His mind, sharp and calculating, quickly reminded him of the time constraints. The Hokage could return at any moment, and their clandestine operation required swiftness.
Menma took a step back, tearing his gaze away from the tempting scroll. He decided to prioritize the immediate task at hand. There would be a more opportune moment to explore that particular scroll, a time when the stakes were not as high, and the shadows of his ambitions wouldn't cast a suspicious light.
With a determined focus, he continued his meticulous search, leaving the intriguing scroll untouched for now. The room remained a vault of secrets, and Menma was determined to unlock the right one.
The daylight streamed through the windows, casting a glow on the scrolls as the duo delved into the depths of historical knowledge, their quest for answers echoing in the silent chambers of the Hokage's residence.
...
As Menma and Shisui meticulously combed through the scrolls in the room, Shisui's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of an aged scroll tucked away in a corner. Its edges were frayed, and the parchment showed signs of wear, attesting to its age.
Curiosity and anticipation mingled in Shisui's expression as he delicately pulled the scroll from its resting place. The Hokage's study held many historical documents, but this one seemed to carry a weight beyond its material form.
The scroll unfolded with a careful rustle, revealing faded ink and symbols that spoke of a time long past. The characters, once bold and vibrant, now whispered tales of ancient history.
Despite its worn appearance, the scroll exuded an air of significance, as if it held the secrets of a bygone era. Shisui's eyes traced the intricate details, recognizing the Uchiha clan's unique symbols woven into the complex seals.
Menma, catching a glimpse of the aged parchment, couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation. This could be the key to unlocking the mysteries surrounding her sealing, a chapter lost in the annals of history.
The room held its breath as Shisui continued to decipher the contents of the scroll, unraveling the threads that connected the present to the obscured past of the Uchiha clan.
Year 4 A.N.B. March 11 ~ 12:22 P.M ~ Bunker
"So? Did you manage to retrieve every bit of information?"
"Haha, don't underestimate the Sharingan. I could've easily copied the caligraphy of that scroll if I wanted. I've read everything as quickly as possible and recorded the information in my mind."
"Where is it then?"
Shisui stressed, "It's around the border of the land of fire with the hidden rain."
Menma frowned, 'I should've known...' Recomposing, he spoke, worriedly, "That's quite distant from the village. If we go there they'll..."
"Notice our absence from the village, yes," Shisui replied, upbeat.
"This is getting risky..."
"Don't worry, I can manage on my side and justify."
"Can't say the same for Naruto; he'll probably notice my absence when he realizes there's no one to argue with over who finished the last ramen packet in the cupboard. He might be wondering if I'm just hiding somewhere planning an elaborate prank on him." Menma spoke and Shisui giggled heartedly.
"Still, isn't it a bit dangerous to leave him alone again?"
"Don't worry, he's repented from wandering alone that day and I reinforced that he does not leave the house without me no matter how long I take to return," Menma replied and Shisui understood.
"Well, you want to go now? If I use my body flicker we can still get there and be back before the Hokage notices it."
"That is up to you. If you don't have any missions today, it's fine by me; the sooner we solve this, the better. To avoid being noticed, it's better if we take her and bring her back immediately"
"Wait, what do you mean to bring her back? You're planning to bring her to the village?"
"Well, of course, where else will she stay? Since the Hokage crystal ball only works with chakra signatures he's been in contact with, she can hide in the bunker."
Shisui sighed deeply, "Let's not waste time then."
Menma climbed onto his back, and Shisui ran through the passageway at great speed, as the light of the tunnel consumed them, they soon found themselves on an old, soiled, rocky road.
Year 4 A.N.B. March 11 ~ 3:15 P.M ~ Border Land of Fire-Hidden rain
The journey to the sealing place was arduous, leading Menma and Shisui through dense forests, over treacherous mountain paths, and across rivers that whispered tales of ancient battles. As they neared the hidden waterfall, the atmosphere seemed to change, becoming charged with an eerie energy that hinted at the gravity of what lay beneath.
The waterfall, veiling the entrance to the hidden chamber, roared with a powerful rhythm that echoed in the surrounding mountains. Its spray hung heavy in the air, creating a misty veil that cloaked the secrets held within. Shisui carefully approached the edge, feeling the cool mist on his face as he surveyed the scene.
With his expression unreadable, he stood beside Menma, both momentarily lost in the sight before them. The rocky ledge opened into a cavern, and behind the cascading curtain of water, a large stone door was revealed. Carvings, weathered with age, adorned the entrance, telling a silent tale of sacrifice and the burden carried by those who had sealed the girl away.
"Looks like we've found it," Menma remarked, his voice hushed in reverence for the hidden history they were about to uncover.
Shisui nodded solemnly, his Sharingan activated, scanning the surroundings for any potential threats. Together, they stepped behind the waterfall, the roaring water creating a natural barrier against prying eyes.
The stone door loomed before them, intricately engraved with symbols that seemed to pulse with ancient power. Menma, his curiosity tempered by respect, reached out to touch the cold surface. As his hand made contact, a surge of chakra resonated through him as if the very stones remembered the touch of those responsible for the sealing.
With a low rumble, the stone door began to shift, revealing a dimly lit chamber beyond. The air inside felt heavy as if the weight of history pressed down on them. Torchlight flickered, revealing the cavern's contents.
In the center of the chamber lay a stone pedestal, upon which rested a scroll, worn with time but meticulously preserved. The air seemed to crackle with dormant energy, the lingering power of a force once considered too dangerous to roam free.
Menma approached the pedestal, the scroll beckoning like a forgotten memory. As he unfurled it, the words of the past leaped off the pages, recounting the tale of Nanashi Uchiha—her power, and the decision to seal her away for the sake of their so precious peace.
Shisui, his eyes scanning the surroundings, remained vigilant. The weight of their discovery hung in the air, a delicate balance between reverence for the past and the responsibility of the future.
...
As Shisui carefully unraveled the ancient seals on the stone door, the air shifted with anticipation. The intricate chakra patterns that had held Nanashi Uchiha captive for so long began to fade, revealing the dormant figure within.
As the last seal dissipated, the chamber was filled with an otherworldly silence. The stillness was broken only by the rhythmic sounds of the waterfall outside. Shisui, eyes fixed on the unsealed entrance, braced himself for what lay beyond.
The stone door creaked open, revealing Nanashi in a state of suspended animation. She lay on the stone pedestal, pale and unmoving, a living relic of a bygone era. Shisui approached cautiously, his Sharingan assessing the situation.
"Stay vigilant," he warned Menma, who nodded in acknowledgment.
As Shisui reached out to check Nanashi's pulse, her eyelids fluttered. The sudden movement startled Shisui, and he stepped back just as her eyes snapped open.
For a moment, Nanashi's gaze seemed unfocused, lost in the disorienting transition from a timeless slumber to the harsh reality of the present. Then, her eyes narrowed, and her body tensed with a predatory alertness.
"Who dares disturb my rest?" Her voice was a low, guttural growl, filled with an ancient rage. Her Sharingan blazed to life, crimson orbs reflecting a long-buried fury.
Shisui, maintaining a defensive stance, spoke calmly, "We mean you no harm, Nanashi Uchiha. We've unsealed you to seek your help."
Her response was a primal snarl, a visceral reaction to the memories that flooded back. In her mind, she was still on the battlefield, locked in combat with the Senju and Sarutobi Clans. The passage of time, the changing world around her, had been lost in the timeless void of her imprisonment.
Menma, sensing the escalating tension, retreated, prepared for whatever might come. Shisui, his Sharingan spinning, tried to establish a mental connection, hoping to bridge the gap between Nanashi's memories and the reality that awaited her.
Nanashi, caught in the grip of ancient traumas, lashed out instinctively upon witnessing another Sharingan, a grim memory of her past suffering at the hands of her own Clan.
Chakra surged around her, forming a defensive barrier as she assumed a combat-ready stance. The chamber, once filled with stillness, now echoed with the crackle of released energy.
Shisui spoke with a firm yet soothing tone, "Nanashi, you're no longer on the battlefield. You've been sealed away for almost a century. The world has changed."
Her eyes, wild with a mixture of confusion and rage, flickered between Shisui and Menma. The realization that the world had moved on without her, that the battles she fought were but distant echoes, slowly dawned on her.
In that moment of clarity, the violent aura that surrounded Nanashi began to wane. The ancient Uchiha caught between the echoes of her past and the unfamiliar present, faced the daunting task of reconciling the two.
Menma stepped forward, carefully choosing his words as he faced the awakened Nanashi. His eyes, swirling with confidence, mirrored the intensity of hers.
"Nanashi, we're not your enemies. We released you to seek your help, not to engage in combat," he began, his voice steady.
Nanashi's eyes narrowed as she observed the scene before her. Shisui, the Uchiha, stood with a child at his side. This child walked with an almost otherworldly confidence. This sight puzzled Nanashi, stirring a sense of confusion within her. Children were known as clumsy and yet, this one had a confident stride in its steps.
"Why would a Uchiha, known for their prowess in battle and their fierce determination, be accompanied by a child?" she thought to herself, her brow furrowing with uncertainty. The presence of the boy next to Shisui contradicted her expectations, leaving her questioning the situation and wondering what could have transpired in her absence.
"Think about it. If we were enemies, Shisui could have already used his Kotoamatsukami on you while you were awakening. We know your abilities, and there's no way you could win against Shisui. But we don't want to fight you; we want your help."
He gestured to Shisui, who maintained a defensive stance but hadn't made any aggressive moves. "We need your unique abilities. The world has changed, and we face new challenges. Your power can guide us, but only if you choose to cooperate."
Menma's eyes bore into Nanashi's, a silent plea for reason. The ancient Uchiha caught between the echoes of a distant past and the uncertain present, considered Menma's words. The flicker of recognition in her eyes hinted at the internal struggle as she grappled with the reality of her awakening.
In that charged moment, Menma hoped to bridge the gap between their worlds, finding a common ground that could unite the fractured timelines.
Seeing her hesitation, Menma pressed further,
"Would have the Uchiha from back then hesitated like we are? Would've them stopped to have a chatter before taking your power by force?"
"Start speaking!" She demanded, the stress getting to her, showing clear impatience in her voice.
...
Menma told Nanashi everything he told Shisui.
The girl held her head in confusion. "This...Can't be possible..."
"I know, but that's how I found out about your existence and how I managed to find you even though you were supposed to be long forgotten by history."
"But it still doesn't change anything! Telling me this won't change what I went through!"
"Nanashi...this is not a prison. No one here is judging you for what you went through" Shisui spoke.
"The Sarutobi Clan who sealed you away is in shambles. They are just a shadow of their former self."
"But there is one thing that will feel worse than death, Nanashi."
"What?!" She exploded, fed up with all the talking.
"Loneliness."
That single word felt like an arrow to her chest; immediately, all the bad memories she had of her clan using her as a weapon, came back to a single feeling, sadness. No matter how much she felt angry and resentful to her clan, the feeling that always felt the worse in her chest, was this sensation of solitude, loneliness that never let go of her. Her parents, her home, they all had been long gone.
Everything she loved, was gone and she never stopped to think about it.
"I know well what that feels like. Not having parents there to look after you, to protect you, or not even a friend that shares the same pain..."
Shisui looked at the girl with pity; he always had his mind focused on the future of the village and his clan but never thought back on what horrors they caused to the people who got caught in their affairs.
"No man, no God will ever forgive the terrible deeds that shinobi throughout history have committed but if you wish, Shisui here can use his Sharingan to permanently erase the memories of your suffering under the Uchiha."
"You need to forget revenge. The Uchiha who imprisoned you are long gone; this is another time and this is another Uchiha Clan."
"What better way to get closure than moving on?"
"And even if after all I told you still doesn't change your heart, there is no better opportunity to destroy the two clans that caused you the most harm than now. With Shisui's doujutsu and yours working together, whatever you decide will be final whether it is to destroy or save the village, I'll leave it in your hands."
"You are no longer the Uchiha weapon nor are you an object to the Senju; you're family," Shisui spoke while holding her hand.
Noticing that the girl did not reject Shisui's gesture of empathy, Menma decided it was time for the last push,
"There is one last thing you need. Something your parents probably wanted you to keep. I hereby give back your name, Hikari Uchiha."
The girl widened her eyes upon hearing her real name.
"Nanashi, or should I say Hikari, I understand the pain and betrayal you've experienced at the hands of the Uchiha clan and the shinobi world. Your incarceration, treated merely as a weapon, is a gross injustice. But look beyond the past, look to the potential for change."
"I'm not asking you to forgive. The wounds inflicted are deep, and I respect that. What I am proposing is an opportunity for redemption, a chance to reshape the narrative. By aiding us, you're not just fighting for a clan that once imprisoned you; you're fighting for a new era." Shisui spoke.
"I know you've been used as a tool, a weapon, and it's not fair. But joining forces with us doesn't make you a pawn. It makes you a force of change, a powerful entity deciding your destiny. You have the strength within to defy the roles others have imposed upon you." Menma spoke.
"Help us save the Uchiha clan, not for them but for you, for Hikari. Reclaim your identity and show the world that you're not just a weapon or a tool. You're a person with the power to rewrite your own story."
"So, Hikari, will you join us in reshaping the future? Will you step out of the shadows of the past and embrace the possibility of a new dawn? The choice is yours, and in making it, you reclaim more than just your freedom; you reclaim your name and your agency in this world."
Nanashi stood in silence, the weight of her past bearing down on her shoulders. The words echoed in the cavernous space of her mind, each syllable unraveling the tightly wound threads of resentment that had bound her for so long. For a moment, she seemed frozen, a statue carved from the shadows of her torment.
The internal struggle played out on her face, the conflict evident in the narrowing of her eyes and the subtle twitch of her brow. It was as if the walls she had built around herself were crumbling, and she stood exposed, vulnerable.
Then, as if a dam had burst, a flood of emotion washed over her. The steeliness in her gaze softened, replaced by a glimmer of something long forgotten—hope. She took a deep breath, a breath she hadn't realized she needed.
"You speak of redemption and a chance for change," she finally uttered, her voice carrying the weight of years of silence.
"And you're right. I'm tired of being a pawn, a tool for others' ambitions."
A hint of a smile touched her lips, a fragile expression like the first light after a long night.
"Call me Hikari," she whispered, embracing the name that had been stolen from her. "For the chance at redemption, for the possibility of a new dawn, I will stand with you."
...
Menma was on the way back home when he felt the world around him go dark. He had been forcefully pulled into his mind landscape.
'Is this...What would you call it? Your inner sanctum? A haven of your own? Call me intrigued'
Menma raised an eyebrow in puzzlement, "Why did you bring me here? I didn't permit you."
'Come now, we're both visionary beings. Visionary beings are dedicated to the pursuit of their goals. You can show me your thoughts. I can show you things...'
'Ha, You wouldn't like them. You'd find them unpleasant.'
'In life one must do any number of things a lay person may find, distasteful. Why didn't you tell your intentions to that Uchiha?'
"If they ever knew what I think, they'd find me unscrupulous."
'You concern so much with your appearance. But that mind of yours, that's all that matters...'
Menma irked a brow at the beast's comment, "What do you mean?"
'Since we're becoming so close, I'll be sharing a bit of my knowledge with you. What I mean is that you're making the right decisions while keeping a calm mind. It was a good decision that you didn't tell everything to that Uchiha.'
'Why do you say that?'
'A person without a calm mind cannot achieve their true potential in this world, kid. I felt that you didn't tell everything to that Shisui. By not filling his mind with concerns, he can properly mold his chakra toward his doujutsu'
'Are you implying that one cannot fully use their power if they have concerns?'
'Yes...And you gave him the motivation to cover for his previous doubts so now he will probably put everything into it.'
'Why do you think they usually need eyes to meet to put someone in a genjutsu? It is because the eyes are their passageway to access the brain which is also connected to their chakra network.'
"A single glance and you're trapped in their doujutsu. The Uchiha Clan has always been blessed by Yin Release."
'What about the Susanoo? Even if they're taken out of their eyes, they can still use it.'
'The Sharingan could be just a means by which they awaken that particular ability. Once they do, it must be connected to their chakra network.'
'But coming back to your first question, It is the same concept as mold chakra. You need to concentrate, work your mind, and gather your stamina, using the body. By doing things such as sleeping and eating, one can recover their chakra since doing both relaxes the mind and rests the body, releasing dopamine'
"But what about the eight inner gates? They work like internal valves that expel chakra that a person cannot use under normal conditions."
'That would be more connected towards the body than the mind. If one trains enough physically, they can access the inner gates and release the restraints that limit their power.'
"The first gate releases the brain's restraints, does it mean it connects with the mind concept too?"
"What the initial gate does is to let the person perceive and think things they usually wouldn't. Then again, you can say everything is connected."
The Nine-Tails, with a sinister and sarcastic tone, mused, 'Have you ever marveled at the exquisite dance between a shattered mind and a crumbling body? It's a symphony of despair, a masterpiece of agony. Such delicate intricacies in the unraveling of one's sanity, are accompanied by the disintegration of the vessel that once held it together. Ah, the fragility of the human spirit, a spectacle that never fails to amuse.'
Menma, uninterested, retorted, 'Cut the poetic nonsense and get to the point. I've got more important things to deal with than your morbid musings.'
The Nine Tails replied with an eerie calmness, 'You see, kid, it's a delicate issue. Break the mind and the body crumbles. Shatter the body, and the mind becomes a useless fragment. It's all about a delicate balance.'
'Just think about how the Sharingan of the Uchiha works, how it lets someone even without physical training perceive everything in what you could call, slow motion.'
'The first gate does something very similar. It lets the person have the possibility to understand what's around them through the images captured by the eyes and sent to the brain to accompany the body's movements which have been increased to abnormal levels.'
'Even if you see someone running at the speed of sound, your brain can't comprehend and capture the visible image without something like the Sharingan. The same thing can be achieved by someone who released the first gate'
'I see...How interesting. But even if someone can see it, they need a training body to react to a greater speed'
'Exactly, everything is relative; you would need a balance. Also, good job converting that girl to your side, kid. You're a real smooth talker.'
'You're kidding me, It was a gamble. She could have turned on us and tried to kill Shisui but I instructed him to stop her with Kotoamatsukami if she tried anything funny. She's lucky I decided to try speaking to her first and not waste Shisui's visual prowess unnecessarily'
'Regardless, what sorcery you use to convince her?'
'Ah, it's a bit of a psychological game; I'm not as unfamiliar with it as you think.'
'People want to believe in something, something that aligns with their desires or fears. So, I say what they're longing to hear and make them feel like they're getting what they want. It's like playing a melody that resonates with their innermost thoughts. Once they're hooked on that tune, they dance to my rhythm.'
Recognizing Shisui's profound loyalty to the Uchiha, he carefully chose words that would resonate with that commitment, triggering the release of oxytocin for trust while subtly introducing the fear of potential betrayals to keep Shisui vigilant.
Turning to Hikari, a kind soul longing for connection and change, Menma addressed the deeper yearnings beneath her initial resentment. He spoke empathetically, providing the words she craved to hear, thus activating the release of dopamine associated with feelings of reward and pleasure. However, the subtle undertone of caution, linked to Shisui's potent abilities, ensured a balance of trust and wariness.
In essence, Menma orchestrated the symphony of neurotransmitters and neural pathways, weaving a psychological tapestry tailored to each individual. Yet, amid his strategic finesse, he recognized the delicate ethical line he treaded, especially when dealing with Hikari, a girl seeking solace in a world that seemed relentless.
Deep down there, his other self, Evan, still brought about memories of his time in the training facility. It was a part of him that still lingered in this world.
Thanks to the time he spent there, he was well aware of the intricacies of human psychology, particularly how certain appeals could target specific regions of the brain associated with emotions and decision-making.
By crafting his words with precision, he could stimulate neural pathways related to desire, loyalty, and fear, essentially influencing the thought processes of those he engaged.
'It's good to see you're finally understanding that sometimes we need to do things that some might find, questionable if one wishes to get what they want.'
'Don't patronize me. I've learned this way of thinking long before I met you,' Menma replied.
The beast reproached with a snort, 'Heh, suit yourself, kid. Still, I'm looking forward to the execution of this plan of yours. I'll be waiting.' The beast responded, and the mental space fizzled out.
'That cretin, still trying to get into my head...' He ruminated with disdain.
'He may know how I feel, but he can't read my mind. Continue trying to manipulate me, beast; yours is in store...'
'I've finally come to recognize the way, the direction to my goal. The details are all there and have been right in front of my nose. I'm appalled and incensed that I did not see them sooner.'
'The specific process of breaking down this new world, to eradicate those who oppose me and give myself free rein, is so much clearer now. And now that I see it, now that what I have to do is in front of me, I feel as if there is not much else to do other than press on. I can have everything I sought, everything I've lost...'
'But I need resources. The fox...that cretin will finally begin to earn his keep once he starts giving me his chakra. If he doesn't keep his word...Let's just say I've had an idea how to deal with him...'
Menma returned home, he already laid a few plans to stop the Uchiha coup and heard the answer from Hikari now they just needed to execute...
Year 4 A.N.B. March 11 ~ 5:40 P.M ~ Konoha Underground Complex ~ The Foundation
It had been days since Shisui and Itachi Uchiha stopped his root to prevent the secret message from reaching Hiruzen's hands and honestly, he was still irked by the fact.
With a grunt, he took a seat in his office, resting his back on his chair, he felt the need to close his eyes for a moment of rest.
It was not to last though for the moment he decided to do so, a swirl of leaves formed before him and from it, the figure of one of his loyal retainers appeared.
Acknowledging the presence of Shu, one of his personal Anbu who was responsible for reporting to him, he immediately asked, "So?"
"As you always ask me, here are the general reports of the week."
Danzo, upon taking the document in his hands, leaned on his imposing desk, surrounded by the dimly lit ambiance of his office. A meticulously organized array of reports lay before him, detailing the week's occurrences in the village. His keen eyes moved swiftly across the parchment, absorbing the information with a calculated precision that defined his character.
The reports spoke of various events – minor skirmishes between rival clans, updates on ANBU activities, and the general state of the village. However, Danzo's attention, ever sharp and discerning, honed in on the seemingly insignificant details. He noted the increased frequency of small thefts around the stores, a pattern that would likely escape the notice of most, but not Danzo.
A contemplative frown creased his forehead as he observed the implications of these seemingly minor transgressions. In Danzo's eyes, it wasn't merely about stolen goods; it was about the erosion of order, the gradual chipping away at the foundation of the village's stability.
He leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers with an air of authority. "Attention to detail is paramount," he muttered to himself, his voice a low rasp that resonated in the room.
"Hiruzen may be content to overlook these petty matters, but it's the accumulation of such oversights that weakens our foundation."
Danzo's gaze remained fixed on the reports, his mind calculating the potential consequences of these seemingly inconsequential incidents. In his worldview, every detail mattered, and the village needed a leader who could scrutinize the minutiae, not just grand gestures.
"Small thefts may seem trivial to some, but they are the tendrils of a more insidious problem," he muttered, more to himself than anyone else in the room. "We must address these issues at their root, eliminate the potential for disorder before it festers."
"Given our current limited resources, I propose we refrain from deploying our valuable manpower on minor thefts. Instead, I'll advise Hiruzen to enhance the security measures surrounding our commercial establishments."
"Installing more cameras around the village to reduce the likelihood of nighttime incidents. Additionally, we should establish a network of informants strategically placed in the markets to provide real-time updates on any suspicious activities."
"Furthermore, consider reinforcing the stores' entrances with seals that trigger alarms when tampered with, and stationing a few ANBU operatives discreetly in the vicinity to deter potential thieves. Finally, encourage citizens to form neighborhood watch groups, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the security of their local businesses."
The room echoed with the weight of Danzo's conviction. For him, every report, every discrepancy, was a piece in a complex puzzle, and he intended to solve it with meticulous care, ensuring that the village operated like a well-oiled machine under his watchful eye.
"Uh...sir? About the other task you ordered."
"Oh, how is it going?"
"He continues to visit the Uchiha compound, sometimes by himself."
"Hn. I see." Danzo acknowledged. He heard from Hiruzen that Menma Uzumaki was much more mature than his younger sibling so he ordered that he would be the focus of his monitorament.
It has been more than two months since the incident in the village commercial center. Two months since he discovered Hiruzen had omitted to him that both sons of Minato and Kushina were Jinchuriki of the fox.
Hiruzen tended to omit the tiniest of details but this time, he crossed the line.
Having the Jinchuriki grow fond of the Uchiha was bad news for him. If they grew up supporting them, this whole affair could come back to haunt the village later.
"They'll be four by next year, right?" Danzo asked rhetorically.
Danzo's gaze narrowed, a subtle expression of irritation tainting his features.
"If only I had known from the moment of their birth that they were both Jinchuriki," he mused, the thought slipping through his tightly controlled demeanor.
"I could have ensured at least one of them was under my wing, shaping their loyalties to serve the village's true interests."
The revelation of both Minato's sons harboring the Nine-Tails within them was a vexation to Danzo. The Hokage's leniency on this matter, allowing the Jinchuriki to form connections outside the village's approved circles, irked him to no end. It was a potential vulnerability that would surely compromise the village's security in the future.
He leaned back, fingers steepled once more, contemplating the situation. "Hiruzen's soft-hearted approach is a liability. The Uchiha are notoriously difficult to control, and the last thing we need is the Jinchuriki developing an undue attachment to them."
Danzo's plans were meticulous, rooted in a belief that decisive and sometimes harsh actions were necessary for the village's survival. The Jinchuriki, being living weapons, should be handled with a firm hand, their loyalty molded to ensure the village's prosperity.
"Uh.. sir? There is an additional detail that I would like to inform you."
Danzo's impatience was clearly shown in his features. "What is it?" he asked, a sharp edge of irritation cutting through his words, any more carelessness would not be tolerated.
"During my turn observing the Uchiha compound, I couldn't approach a certain secluded area to observe the watched element closer."
Danzo irked an eyebrow at this, "And?"
"Since I couldn't approach, I awaited an opportune moment but from what I could observe, the one who accompanied the Jinchuriki was identified to be Shisui Uchiha."
Danzo had the habit of keeping his only exposed eye closed during conversations, but at the mention of the name of the young Uchiha prodigy, he opened it, revealing the discerning gaze that had observed the village for years.
"So, Shisui is becoming involved with the Jinchuriki," he mused. The information was a valuable addition to his repertoire. Shisui's connection with the Jinchuriki could be potentially harmful.
As he stood alone in the dimly lit underground room, Danzo contemplated the unfolding dynamics. Shisui's Sharingan was a valuable asset, and if he ever could get his hands on it, could be directed toward the goals of the Foundation.
He had learned from the studies of his late Sensei and Hokage, Tobirama, that the Uchiha had a peculiar way of developing their eyes.
Shisui was a prodigy who had become Jonin at the age of eight and from what he learned of his backstory, he had participated in the third great ninja war at the age of six so there was a possibility that he could have awakened the famous, yet rare, Mangekyo Sharingan that only a few handful of Uchiha had in the long past.
The same was also known to be proficient at Genjutsu and if the recordings left by Lord Second were anything to be true, the records of the observed potential traits that the awakened powers concentrated on were as follows: Genjutsu, Blaze release, Spacetime.
Danzo allowed a devious smile to form on his lips. 'Any of these would be a great addition...'
The intricacies of Konoha's power plays were like a delicate web, and Danzo reveled in his role as the silent puppeteer.
His mind churned with possibilities, contemplating how best to exploit this newfound connection. In the shadows, where he thrived, Danzo laid the groundwork for yet another move in his intricate game for control.
"Send someone capable of monitoring their interactions closely. We can't afford any emotional entanglements that might cloud their judgment in the future. The Uchiha may be an influential clan, but the village's interests must always come first," Danzo declared with an air of authority.
"Hai!" The root replied, immediately leaving the office to carry out the orders.
Danzo now stood completely alone in his office, the darkness in the ambiance overtaking him, giving an eerie and yet, ominous undertone to his thoughts. The dim light from a lone lamp cast long, distorted shadows on the walls, mirroring the complexities of Danzo's schemes.
His gaze fixated on a map of the village, its corners curling with age. He traced the borders with a finger as if outlining the future steps of his calculated moves. The silence in the room was only interrupted by the faint rustle of papers disturbed by the underground currents, whispering secrets only Danzo could hear.
"Softness begets weakness," he murmured to the shadows, the words resonating with the cold determination that fueled his every action. The Hokage's sentimentality, especially when it came to the Jinchuriki, irked him. In his world, strength came from unwavering discipline, not from misplaced compassion.
The underground currents seemed to carry the weight of Danzo's contemplations, a harbinger of change that he aimed to shape in the village's favor. In the solitude of his underground sanctum, he plotted, each calculated move etching his legacy on the fate of Konoha.
Chapter End