Chapter 74: The Nestling (Part Two)
"Apologies, that was rude of me."
Uchiha Fugaku looked at the teacup lying on the table, silent for a moment before forcing a smile as he spoke to Uchiha Kei. Even so, such a lapse in composure was indeed unlike him.
Uchiha Itachi was visibly surprised—he had never expected his usually composed and steady father to show such a moment of loss.
But the sharp-minded Itachi said nothing. Instead, he silently etched a name into his memory—Uchiha Madara, the man who had caused his father to falter.
"Kei, don't mention that name again," Fugaku said, his emotions gradually settling. "I don't know where you came across it, but please—don't bring it up anymore."
"I understand, Clan Leader," Kei replied calmly on the surface, though inwardly, he couldn't help but sigh in amazement.
The very mention of Uchiha Madara still holds terrifying power.
Even though he was long believed dead, no one dared to deny how formidable he was. And in the future, when he is resurrected via Edo Tensei, he will prove once again just how fearsome he truly is—and just how justified everyone's fear of him was.
Kei respected Madara deeply, but he wasn't particularly afraid—not now. Who knows? Maybe that old monster was already on his last breath anyway.
As for the future, Kei wasn't going to think too far ahead. Becoming stronger would take time.
He wasn't like Uchiha Sasuke or Uzumaki Naruto, who leveled up like they were running on cheat codes.
Kei understood he couldn't compare to them—but he did have his own advantages. At the very least, he believed he could eventually reach the level of Itachi.
"Please continue, Kei," Fugaku said at last after Itachi had poured a fresh cup of tea.
"Understood, Clan Leader." Kei nodded and continued,
"Ever since… that ninja left, the seeds of conflict were already sown. The Second Hokage's policies, while appearing to target all ninja clans, were in truth aimed squarely at the Uchiha."
"And what makes you say that?" Fugaku asked, sipping his tea calmly.
"The Konoha Military Police Force," Kei said with a faint smile. "It was established by the Second Hokage. On paper, handing over such a vital department to the Uchiha seemed like trust. But in practice, it forced our clan into the role of enforcers, overseeing criminals—and conveniently, placed the department right next to the village prison. It was a blatant effort to isolate us, banishing the Uchiha to the outskirts of Konoha."
At this point, Kei paused to observe Fugaku's expression.
As expected, Fugaku remained composed. Kei couldn't read his thoughts, but that calm demeanor was fitting for a clan leader—and his silence was a signal for Kei to continue. Kei also noticed Itachi had fallen into deep thought.
So this is what they mean when they say a child has the mind of a Hokage?
Kei shook his head. Despite the maturity, Itachi's views were still painfully naive.
He doesn't even understand the simple truth that "disasters should not implicate one's family." Kei really didn't like this kid.
As Kei organized his thoughts, he decided it was best not to reveal everything at once.
Sometimes, leaving things unsaid can have more impact.
"I'm sure you can guess why the Second Hokage did all this, Clan Leader. I sensed it clearly at the last clan meeting—and I believe many others did too." Kei spoke with renewed clarity.
"I believe the Second Hokage's true intention was to monitor the Uchiha, to ensure that if another 'ninja like him' ever emerged, the village could respond immediately. In his eyes, that was the best way to safeguard Konoha. After all—"
"I understand, Kei." Fugaku suddenly interrupted him, letting out a soft sigh. "You don't need to say any more. I understand."
He did understand.
Fugaku could see the logic behind the Second Hokage's actions. After all, Tobirama had fought against the Uchiha clan for years—he knew them well. He had also personally experienced Madara's attack on the village.
Even though Madara was ultimately defeated by Hashirama in the battle at the Valley of the End, the cost had been the life of the First Hokage.
So Tobirama feared another Madara might one day arise from the Uchiha—he had to remain vigilant.
After all, Madara's strength was overwhelming.
Fugaku also suspected that in Tobirama's eyes, the Uchiha were innately evil. He had heard similar sentiments from the clan elders—especially since many among them were still loyal to Madara's ideals.
"Kei… don't speak of any of this outside," Fugaku said after some thought, his tone serious.
"I understand, Clan Leader. These are just my personal speculations anyway." Kei nodded sincerely.
What kind of idiot would repeat this in public? That's asking to die.
He only said this much because it was a safe space—and why he had initially wanted Itachi to leave.
But then he figured: why not plant a few seeds in young Itachi's mind?
Whether they take root or not, Kei didn't care. He just wanted to mess with him a little.
If Itachi grew stronger in the future and gained the Third Hokage's attention, and if he started questioning things—that would be interesting.
If Hiruzen panicked and decided to eliminate him? Even more interesting. Will he fight back—or stay silent?
Or maybe the Third will pretend to stay calm and ask who told him all this. Then Itachi gets a round of brainwashing and comes straight back to me?
Whatever happened, Kei had already thought it all through.
If the plan succeeded, the Third Hokage might be digging his own grave.
If it failed? No big deal. Kei could always surrender—or disappear. One way or another, he'd never let it backfire on himself.
Seeing Fugaku's response, Kei felt like he was a step closer to his plan's success.
After all, the political savvy he showed this time far surpassed the last.
"Kei," Fugaku said suddenly, pulling him from his thoughts. His intense gaze locked onto Kei's face.
"Yes, Clan Leader," Kei replied immediately, bowing respectfully.
"You don't need to keep putting on that face. I'm sure, in your eyes, I'm just a failure, aren't I?" Fugaku sighed.
Kei really wanted to say, "Yes, and also a cold-blooded lunatic."
But he wasn't that bold—yet.
He shook his head. "No, Clan Leader. These are only my own theories. Please don't take them too seriously."
"You're quite cautious, Kei," Fugaku smiled faintly, then suddenly grew serious.
"Have you ever considered… becoming a teacher? Guiding a young fledgling?"
"…"