NOVEL NEXT Chapter 11: Chapter 10
At the heart of the Uchiha district, the Fugaku residence bustled with activity. The clan had gathered to celebrate the birth of a child—an event that symbolized the continuation of their proud lineage. Uchiha Kagami, now seven and a half years old, was among the attendees.
Tall for his age at nearly one and a half meters, Kagami stood out even in the crowded gathering. His loose navy-blue gown fluttered slightly in the gentle evening breeze, and his sharp features were accentuated by the faint but confident smile that rarely left his lips. Despite his young age, Kagami's presence demanded attention.
Trailing behind him was his younger cousin, Shisui, barely two and a half years old. Shisui's wide, curious eyes darted from one group of clan members to another as he struggled to keep up with Kagami's calm, measured strides.
"Brother," Shisui piped up, tugging gently at Kagami's sleeve. "Why are there so many people here? What are they doing?"
Kagami's gaze briefly flicked to Uchiha Mikoto, who held her newborn child, Itachi, in her arms. His expression was unreadable, his voice indifferent as he replied, "They're here to celebrate the birth of a child."
Shisui tilted his head, confused. "What's so special about a baby?"
Kagami didn't answer immediately. His attention was drawn to the approaching figure of Uchiha Akihiko, one of the elder members of the clan. The older man's gait was slow, but his sharp eyes missed nothing.
"Kagami, you've come," Akihiko greeted with a thin smile.
The elder's eyes shifted to the Fugaku family, who were busy accepting congratulations and blessings from other clan members. A sneer tugged at the corner of his lips. "I heard someone calling that baby the 'young clan leader.' How absurd."
Akihiko's disdain was palpable. "We Uchiha are not like the Hyūga, assigning titles out of tradition or birthright. We are a clan that values strength and merit. Even Madara-sama, with all his brilliance, wasn't called the young clan leader until he demonstrated his unmatched talent." He chuckled bitterly, motioning toward the infant. "And they think a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes is worthy of such recognition?"
Kagami's eyes lingered on Itachi for a moment before he responded, his tone as calm as ever. "If he grows up normally and develops his talent, he might become worthy of the title."
Though Kagami harbored a deep-seated dislike for Uchiha Itachi—a sentiment rooted in memories of betrayal and bitterness—he was not one to deny potential when he saw it.
Akihiko chuckled and patted Kagami's shoulder affectionately. "You always see further than most, Kagami. It's that sharp insight of yours that makes me believe you're destined for greatness. In a few years, you might even surpass Fugaku. When that day comes, I'll propose a leadership challenge. You're far more suited to lead the Uchiha than he ever was."
Kagami's faint smile didn't waver, but he shook his head. "It's not time for that yet, Elder Akihiko."
His thoughts drifted elsewhere. The borders were already tense, and in another year or two, the Third Ninja World War would break out. He knew the Uchiha clan would be dragged into the chaos, though it would take time before they were deployed to significant battlefields.
The internal politics of the Uchiha clan also weighed heavily on his mind. The radicals, who harbored deep resentment toward Konoha, were the majority. Yet, there were still those who sought peace and cooperation with the village—a group that included Fugaku. It was a delicate balance that could shatter at any moment.
---
As the celebration continued, the sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air. Kagami and Shisui made their way to the banquet area, where Uchiha Fugaku himself was offering toasts. The clan leader's calm demeanor seemed unshaken as he raised his cup toward Akihiko and Kagami.
"Elder Akihiko, your contributions to the clan are invaluable. And Kagami, Shisui," Fugaku said, his voice warm and measured, "Itachi is your younger brother in spirit. I hope you will look after him as he grows."
The words hung in the air, drawing subtle glances from other clan members. Beneath the surface of cordiality, tension simmered. The divide within the Uchiha was becoming increasingly apparent.
Kagami set down his cup of juice and slowly rose to his feet. The faint sound of his chair scraping against the wooden floor drew attention.
"Clan leader Fugaku," Kagami began, his voice calm but firm, "on this auspicious occasion, I would like to request something of you."
Fugaku raised an eyebrow but kept his expression neutral. "What is it, Kagami?"
"I wish to challenge you," Kagami declared, his words cutting through the noise like a blade.
The room fell silent.
For a moment, Fugaku's polite smile faltered, but he quickly regained his composure. "This is neither the time nor the place for such a request," he replied, his tone measured.
Kagami's faint smile didn't waver. "When have the Uchiha ever been concerned about the timing of a fight? Isn't strength our guiding principle?"
Murmurs spread through the gathering, and a few elders exchanged uneasy glances.
Fugaku's eyes darkened slightly, and he motioned for Mikoto to stay back. "You are still a child, Kagami," he said. "Your talent is undeniable, but it is too early for you to challenge me."
Kagami turned away, his wooden clogs echoing against the floor as he walked toward the open courtyard. At the doorway, he stopped and looked back over his shoulder.
His Sharingan activated, the three tomoe spinning ominously in his eyes. A surge of chakra swept over the room, powerful and oppressive.
"I'll wait for you outside, clan leader," Kagami said. "Don't make me wait too long."
The oppressive aura of Kagami's chakra left the room in stunned silence.
---
In the courtyard, clan members gathered to watch the confrontation unfold. Fugaku finally stepped forward, his expression calm but serious.
"I'll humor you, Kagami," Fugaku said as he activated his own Sharingan. "But don't expect me to hold back just because of your age."
Kagami smirked. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
Their chakra clashed like thunder, sending ripples through the air. The fight that was about to begin would serve as a testament to Kagami's potential—and a challenge to Fugaku's leadership.
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For:- aron_4000
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