Shisui let out a helpless sigh. The tree wishes for stillness, but the wind never ceases. He only wanted to focus on training, to refine his kenjutsu and study his eyes—but trouble kept coming in waves. And always from the same person. His head wasn’t suited for deep thinking, and he knew it. So instead of struggling with it, he went straight to Shisui after returning to the clan. As for Fugaku... best not. Not to mention Fugaku’s role within the clan—even considering his reputation with Kanda Kyoichi, it would be impossible. Seeking Fugaku’s help would only cost him what little trust he had with Kyoichi. Anyone with half a brain could see it: Kanda Kyoichi had no fondness for Uchiha Fugaku. "I’ve been studying kenjutsu lately, so my time is tight. If there’s something important, say it. But... Inabi-nii, you should really learn to think for yourself. It’s clear that Sensei intends to cultivate you." "As long as I’ve got you, that’s enough." Inabi grinned. It wasn’t that he refused to think—rather, he had realized something. He wasn’t fit to be a leader. As muscle, sure. But tangled strategies and politics? Far better to devote himself to training. If not for Shisui being too young, he wouldn’t want to shoulder any of this. Right now... both Kyoichi and the clan simply needed time. Time for Shisui to grow stronger, to become someone truly capable of taking the position of clan head—just as Tsunade and Kanda Kyoichi were now. "Alright then. What’s the situation?" Inabi explained what had happened. After listening, Shisui fell silent for a moment before replying: "Sensei’s intent likely lies in this phrase—’one voice.’ He hopes we can unify the Uchiha, and root out the rotten branches." As Kyoichi’s disciple, Shisui had developed a small habit: he would record some of Kyoichi’s teachings, then reread and reflect on them over time. So, while he wouldn’t dare claim he understood his teacher best—among the Uchiha, Shisui was confident no one grasped Kyoichi’s will more clearly than him. And Inabi trusted him for that very reason. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have come to Shisui. "So what do we do? Just... cough, cough, ah, the most important thing is probably those traitors, right? From what I saw, Kyoichi-sama seemed to be hinting I should start with them." "Within our clan, the conservative faction is just nostalgic for Madara’s era. And especially those who betrayed us before—they’ve suffered most. Some dead, some crippled... their outlook must have changed." Shisui’s voice was steady. If even the betrayed no longer clung to Madara’s ideals, then once their minds were unified, persuading the rest of the conservatives wouldn’t be too difficult. After thinking a moment, Shisui scratched his head. "Uh, that’s all I can come up with. I probably can’t help much more. As for what Sensei truly intends... that’s beyond me." In his heart, his teacher’s thoughts were as deep as the ocean—far beyond his ability to measure. When it came to matters , sometimes knowing too much wasn’t a blessing. Better to just stay still and let the village arrange things. Good things didn’t need avoiding. Bad things couldn’t be dodged. The only matter that really concerned Inahori himself was the question of cell transplantation. That was something he couldn’t take lightly. He thought for a moment, remembering... One of the traitor-elders—according to Sensei—had transplanted some kind of special cells. Though that had also been due to age, and eyes with inherently strong pupil power. "Cells. Do you think I should undergo a transplant?" "That’s up to you. But it should help. Also, sensei is ruthless against enemies, but never ambiguous with his own. He’s never been one to harm his people." Shisui didn’t know his teacher’s full plan, but this he was certain of. — Kanda Kyoichi never harmed his own. If he weren’t considered one of their own, sensei wouldn’t have placed him in the ANBU team. Inabi fell thoughtful, then gave a slow nod. He had made up his mind. Though the idea of cell transplantation was frightening, there was truth in what Shisui said—he trusted that Kyoichi wouldn’t harm him. If Kanda Kyoichi wanted to destroy an Uchiha, he had a hundred ways to do it. He didn’t need something so blatant and reckless, something that could ruin his own plans. Kyoichi truly had no such intent. The White Zetsu cells were absolutely beneficial, harmless. Only, they weren’t particularly useful for Kyoichi himself. His body had already begun transforming toward a Sage’s physique. While he wasn’t a natural-born Sage Body like Hashirama Senju, his constitution far surpassed that of White Zetsu. Unless he transplanted Hashirama’s cells, for him, it would only be a downgrade. But for an Uchiha like Inahori, the transplant would be nothing but an upgrade. With Orochimaru’s help, the procedure was carried out. Inabi felt the difference immediately— He had grown stronger! The enhancement was difficult to put into words, but undeniable. Even his eyes seemed greatly empowered. He hadn’t expected it. "Besides the cells, we’re also cultivating ocular organs. They can’t replace the Sharingan, but for daily use, they’re functional enough." Inabi instantly understood, staring in shock before blurting: "Then you mean... those traitors?" "Sigh... ’traitors’? They’re just pitiful people, deceived. After this calamity, they should come to appreciate the value of the village. Of course, we’ll need your cooperation as well." Inabi was moved, excitement surging in his chest. He had struggled with how to deal with those so-called traitors, but Kyoichi had no intent to kill them. Instead, he was working to restore their sight. Nᴇw ɴovel chaptᴇrs are published on 𝔫𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔩·𝔣𝔦𝔯𝔢·𝔫𝔢𝔱 That... was too rare, too precious. Shisui had been right. Indeed, Kyoichi never mistreated his own. Compared to their ancestor Madara, whose motives blurred good and evil and who had seemed ready to annihilate the Uchiha, Konoha was far kinder. Here, they didn’t have to fear being reduced to test subjects. Inabi made his decision. "Kyoichi-sama, I’ll support your plan. I’ll persuade the clansmen, and guide them back to the right path!" "Oh, and... their missing family members might still be in Madara’s hands. His goal is to gather enough eyes for his use. If they know anything, they must share it." Inabi turned to leave, but after a long hesitation, walked back. He weighed his thoughts carefully before speaking. "Kyoichi-sama... do you need Sharingan?" Kyoichi froze, stunned by the sudden question.