Chapter 21: False Promises

"Alright, we're back at the village. Why do you still have that look on your face?" Yuhara sighed as he glanced back at Shisui, who trailed behind him, looking preoccupied.

For days now, Shisui had maintained this demeanor, always appearing deep in thought, sometimes even showing signs of fear. Yuhara had a good idea why. It was likely because of the conversation they had a few nights ago.

Yuhara was right. Shisui had been deeply shaken by their discussion. He had spent days pondering everything, constantly replaying the scenarios in his mind. He had even utilized the various pieces of knowledge Yuhara had imparted to him and found that Yuhara hadn't been exaggerating at all.

Shisui knew from experience and from the elders and clan leader's assessments that Danzo was an extreme individual who trusted no one, especially not the Uchiha. Despite his numerous transgressions, Danzo had never been punished, revealing the depth of the Third Hokage's trust in him.

Given Danzo's extreme distrust and his hatred for the Uchiha, Shisui could foresee what would happen if Danzo learned about his Mangekyou Sharingan abilities. Danzo would likely try to kill him and steal his eyes, believing such power should be under his control. If Shisui survived, his return to the clan would signal Konoha's hostility, potentially inciting the clan to revolt. If he died, his death would provoke the same outcome. His abilities being revealed would seal both his fate and that of the clan.

Lost in thought, Shisui barely registered Yuhara's voice. Apologetically, he muttered, "Sorry, it's just..."

"Alright, I get it," Yuhara interrupted, shaking his head. "Let's just register our return and go home. Everyone's tired."

"Understood," Shisui replied, looking up at the gates of Konoha.

The gates were as grand as ever, but to Shisui, they now evoked a sense of foreboding. He felt a reluctance to step through, knowing he would face both internal clan struggles and unforeseen village troubles.

Sighing, Shisui followed Yuhara to register their return. The guards were unfamiliar faces, not the future Izumo and Kotetsu. They didn't give Yuhara and Shisui any trouble, and soon the two were inside Konoha.

The village was bustling as usual, with children playing joyfully in the streets, a stark contrast to Shisui's troubled mind. Yuhara noticed Shisui's ongoing distress and decided to act. He walked over to a bookstore, bought two books without much thought, and handed one to Shisui.

"Here, take this. All you do is overthink. That's not good," Yuhara said, shoving the book into Shisui's hands.

"Huh?" Shisui took the book instinctively, not even looking at it.

"I told you all that so you'd understand the reality and your importance, not to make you worry endlessly. You trusted me with your abilities, so I need to think about your safety. You're my childhood friend, my schoolmate, and my longtime rival. Now, we're both Uchiha with those eyes, fighting for a greater goal. But we can't achieve it if you're in this state."

Yuhara paused, placing a hand on Shisui's shoulder with a smile. "We're working towards a dangerous goal. If we succeed, we must keep each other in check to avoid becoming what we fight against. Whoever becomes clan leader, the other will be deputy, ensuring we stay true to our mission."

Moved by Yuhara's words, Shisui felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had been friends and rivals since childhood, and now, sharing the Mangekyou, they were closer than ever.

"I'm sorry. I won't let you down again," Shisui promised, determined.

"That's the Shisui I know and need," Yuhara said, pleased. To keep Shisui motivated, he continued, "We need to stay in our best state, only then can we achieve our goal."

"Yes, I won't disappoint you!" Shisui replied, feeling inspired. When someone's faith wavers, a new path, even a glimmer of hope, can reignite their spirit. Shisui wasn't quite a fanatic, but Yuhara's approach was effective.

"When you're troubled, read more books. They can help you find solace, joy, and knowledge," Yuhara said, retracting his hand.

Shisui nodded seriously, but as he looked down at the book, his expression turned strange. "Yuhara, are you sure about this book?"

"Of course, why?" Yuhara responded, puzzled.

"It's 'Icha Icha Paradise'..." Shisui revealed.

"What?"

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