shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 54: Uchiha Clan Leader Candidate

Uchiha Tsukiko was stunned.

He had not expected the Uchiha Patriarch to so directly propose that he become the next leader of the clan.

The offer filled him with both honor and weight—this was not just a position but a responsibility that carried the fate of the entire Uchiha clan.

"Lord Patriarch, I…" Tsukiko began to speak but was cut off by Nagatsuru's raised hand.

"Tsukiko, there is no need to answer right away." Nagatsuru's gaze deepened. "Becoming the Uchiha Clan Leader is more than just inheriting power. It requires wisdom and decisiveness. I must assess whether you have the ability to lead our clan into the future."

Uchiha Tsukiko nodded, his expression calm.

"I understand, Lord Patriarch. I am willing to undergo any assessment you deem necessary. No matter the outcome, I will give it my all."

A trace of satisfaction flashed in Nagatsuru's eyes.

"Good. The future of the Uchiha depends on you. Strength alone is not enough; you must also consider the survival and glory of our clan."

Nagatsuru stood up, walking to his desk and picking up an ancient scroll, then handed it to Tsukiko.

"This is a Uchiha Clan Legacy Scroll. It contains the insights and combat knowledge left behind by Uchiha Madara. Study it well—it will help you grow stronger."

Tsukiko took the scroll carefully, feeling the immense responsibility contained within it.

This was not just a test—it was a guide toward his future role.

"Thank you, Lord Patriarch. I will not let you down."

After leaving Nagatsuru's residence, Tsukiko walked quietly through the Uchiha district, the setting sun casting long shadows behind him.

Looking down at the scroll in his hands, his determination burned fiercely.

One early morning, as Tsukiko was focused on his training, a familiar voice shattered the silence.

He turned quickly, on guard, only to see Orochimaru standing in the distance.

"Tsukiko-kun, long time no see." Orochimaru's serpentine smile spread across his face, his golden eyes gleaming with intrigue.

Tsukiko stepped forward cautiously, his gaze sharp.

"Orochimaru, I haven't heard from you in a while. What brings you here?"

Orochimaru chuckled softly.

"My research has made some breakthroughs, and I thought you might find the results… interesting."

Tsukiko's expression remained unreadable, but internally, he knew whatever Orochimaru had discovered was likely significant.

"Go on."

Orochimaru's eyes glowed with scientific obsession.

"I have found that the Sharingan can suppress the invasive nature of Hashirama cells."

"This means, in theory, that a perfect balance between Sharingan and Hashirama's power can be achieved—allowing their fusion into other individuals. If successful, this would grant even ordinary people bloodline limits beyond their natural lineage."

Hearing this, Tsukiko feigned shock, though in truth, he had already anticipated this revelation.

"Orochimaru… If this works, the entire shinobi world would be revolutionized."

Outwardly, he pretended to be amazed, but inwardly, he knew that this research was dangerous—few could truly withstand the fusion of such powerful, conflicting forces.

"Indeed, Tsukiko-kun." Orochimaru's voice was filled with eagerness. "This discovery could change everything about how we understand Kekkei Genkai."

Then, his tone shifted slightly, becoming more serious.

"But, Tsukiko-kun, I did not come here just to share this knowledge. I need your help."

Tsukiko narrowed his eyes.

"Help? With what?"

Orochimaru gave him a knowing smile, his voice laced with expectation.

"You are a rare existence—a fusion of Senju and Uchiha blood. You wield Wood Release and Sharingan, making your blood invaluable to my research."

"If you are willing to provide me with a sample of your blood, I may be able to push my research even further."

Tsukiko had already expected such a request.

After all, his unique heritage made him one of the most valuable test subjects in the shinobi world.

He paused, pretending to hesitate, then slowly nodded.

"I understand, Orochimaru. If my blood can help your research, I am willing to provide it."

Orochimaru's grin widened.

"Excellent. But tell me, is there something you desire in return?"

Tsukiko thought for a moment, then spoke.

"Yes. The shinobi world suffers from low agricultural productivity—civilians barely have enough to survive. I want to find a way to improve crop yields, to ensure people no longer starve."

"If your research can be applied to agriculture, we could create a stable food supply, which would ultimately bring peace to the common people."

Orochimaru's eyes flickered with surprise, as if he hadn't expected such a philanthropic request.

He contemplated briefly, then nodded.

"A fascinating request, indeed. While this is not my usual area of research, with the right resources, I believe I can achieve this."

"And with your Wood Release, improving agriculture may be even easier than we think."

Tsukiko smiled slightly.

"Then, we have a deal."

Orochimaru retrieved a set of small vials, and with a swift motion, a tiny snake slithered up Tsukiko's wrist, biting down to collect a small amount of blood.

As the vial filled, Orochimaru's eyes gleamed with anticipation.

"With this, my research will progress significantly."

He carefully sealed the sample, before giving Tsukiko a curious glance.

"And as for your agricultural research… I will begin immediately."

Tsukiko nodded, though his mind was already strategizing.

Both Orochimaru's experiments and his own plans were unfolding as expected.

He knew that increasing his power and establishing a stable foundation were key to his long-term vision.

"Then, Tsukiko-kun, I look forward to our next meeting."

With a final, enigmatic smile, Orochimaru vanished into the shadows.

Tsukiko remained standing for a moment, watching the direction he left in, his expression unreadable.

But deep within his eyes, an unwavering resolve burned brightly.

"Everything is progressing as planned. My power, my influence, my control over this world… It is all coming together."

"One day, the shinobi world will not be dictated by fate—but by me."

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