Chapter 22: Chapter:22
Konoha was home to many ninja clans, but only a few could influence its inner workings on the grand stage. Among them, the Uchiha, Senju, and Hyuga families held the greatest sway, each like a towering mountain over the village. Below them, alliances like the Ino-Shika-Cho trio had also secured a respected place through generations of unity.
But now, with the death of Tobirama Senju, the Uchiha had a rare chance to take center stage. Hinata Takuma, leader of the Hyuga clan, wasn't going to sit back any longer. The time had come for his family to rise as well.
So, early the next morning, he arranged a meeting with the new Uchiha head, Uchiha Hirito.
"Uchiha Hirito," Takuma began warmly, "it's impressive to see someone so young taking on such responsibilities for the clan."
"Ah, I just happened to be the one selected," Hirito replied smoothly. "Tomita-sama insisted, and it seemed best to accept the role, especially with all the recent changes in Konoha."
The two exchanged pleasantries, sipping tea and skirting around the real reason for the meeting. Takuma could feel his patience thinning as the conversation dragged on; his aging body didn't handle long silences or endless cups of tea as well as it used to.
Finally, unable to wait any longer, he decided to get to the point.
"Hirito, you understand that Konoha needs someone capable and strong to lead, especially now," he said. "It's only natural for the village to need a stable Hokage—someone respected and powerful. And that's what we all hope for, right?"
Takuma's words hinted at his purpose, hoping Hirito would reciprocate his intentions. The Hyuga leader knew the Hyuga clan lacked the upper-tier strength required to claim the title of Hokage themselves. Still, supporting a new Hokage in the right way could bring greater influence and resources to his clan. The entire village was desperate for stability—and for the rewards the new Hokage would bring.
Hirito let Takuma's words linger in the air for a moment before finally acknowledging the proposal. "The news of Sarutobi Hiruzen as Tobirama-sama's chosen successor is common knowledge now," he said, carefully measuring his words.
Takuma's lip curled slightly. "Sarutobi Hiruzen?" He barely concealed his disdain. "Is that what you've heard? Because I don't think anyone is seriously considering him a candidate. After all, he and his team abandoned Tobirama in his final hour. Who would trust him to lead?"
Hirito nodded, giving Takuma the chance to speak more freely. Clearly, the Hyuga head was ready to switch loyalties. This was an ideal moment for Hirito to secure an alliance with one of Konoha's other powerhouse families.
Seeing Hirito's agreement, Takuma leaned in closer. "Hirito, Konoha deserves a Hokage who will truly bring peace, stability, and a prosperous future to all clans," he said, making his position clear.
Hirito nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I see," he said calmly. "But, what would the Hyuga clan be willing to contribute in exchange for such an alliance?"
Takuma took the hint immediately, gripping Hirito's hand firmly in a gesture of commitment. "The Hyuga clan stands ready to support you, Hirito. You have our loyalty."
"Then it's a pleasure working together," Hirito replied, satisfied. "Let's bring prosperity to both our clans—and to Konoha."
The two men sealed their alliance, each knowing they would have to stay vigilant in the ever-shifting landscape of Konoha politics. In the end, both families would benefit from their shared ambition.
With Takuma's visit concluded, Hirito prepared for his duties at the Uchiha Guard Department. It was his first day as both the clan leader and head of security, and he intended to make a strong impression. The time to rise had truly come.
End of the Chapter.
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