Chapter 26: The Elder Wants to See You

"I told you, it's best not to get involved with him."

After leaving Ichiraku Ramen, Kotonoha Nara glared at Yuhara, clearly displeased with his actions. In Kotonoha's memory, Yuhara had always been extremely smart, kind, and calm—traits not usually associated with the Uchiha clan. Even the intelligent Nara clan members had to admire his insight and perspective. However, after years apart, Kotonoha found that while Yuhara's appearance hadn't changed, his behavior seemed less wise.

Who was that little kid just now? Although the village discouraged talking about it and the villagers spread rumors treating Naruto as the incarnation of the Nine-Tails, it wasn't far from the truth. Naruto was the jinchūriki of the Nine-Tails, with the beast sealed inside him. On the night of the Nine-Tails incident, the ninja who participated saw the Sharingan reflected in the beast's eyes, indicating that an Uchiha controlled it. The devastation caused by the Nine-Tails and the death of the Fourth Hokage and his wife were fresh in everyone's memory. For an Uchiha to associate with the Nine-Tails was practically a death wish.

"I know, I know, don't worry. I've got it under control."

Yuhara shrugged at Kotonoha's nagging, understanding her concern. He appreciated her good intentions and didn't find it troublesome or annoying. A sage once said, "Repay grievances with directness, repay kindness with kindness." Although the original meaning was clear, Yuhara preferred to interpret it as, "If someone treats you well, you treat them well in return; if not, handle it accordingly." This approach, albeit a twist on the sage's words, guided Yuhara's actions.

The Nara clan was interesting: once they got to know you and accepted you, they would help you even if they complained about it being troublesome. Naruto and Shikamaru's relationship was a prime example—Shikamaru often got dragged into Naruto's messes but always helped him out. The Nara clan's ninja always displayed strong moral character; during the Chunin Exams, Shikamaru was willing to sacrifice himself to cover his teammates, fully prepared for the possibility of dying. Fortunately, Asuma arrived just in time to save him.

"Speaking of which, didn't your cousin Shikamaru skip classes with that Akimichi kid?" Yuhara quickly changed the subject, hoping to divert Kotonoha's attention.

"Yeah, my cousin, not my brother. Why should I care about his troubles?" Kotonoha retorted, refusing to be baited into the new topic. However, she wasn't the type to insist on her point of view endlessly. Her advice was a friendly reminder; if Yuhara didn't listen, she wouldn't nag further.

"Fine, fine. It's your business to handle as you see fit. Just a friendly reminder, though," Kotonoha said, stopping and looking around before whispering to Yuhara, her hand covering her mouth. "I've heard some things and can see it myself—your clan's relationship with the village is deteriorating. If possible, I suggest you avoid getting involved in clan matters and find a long-term mission outside the village. When the time comes, make your decisions based on the situation."

Yuhara understood the veiled warning, appreciating Kotonoha's concern. He knew she likely derived her insights from Shikaku Nara's actions and the current village environment. Although Shikaku wasn't one to leak information lightly, Kotonoha's analysis was astute and her advice sound.

"But the key issue is, I can't just run away," Yuhara thought. "You're suggesting I leave Konoha if possible?"

Perhaps the topic was too heavy, or Yuhara's inner plans prevented him from engaging further. He joked, "Are you encouraging me to defect?"

"Who else heard this besides you and me?" Kotonoha raised an eyebrow, looking at Yuhara oddly. "What are you talking about—defection?"

With that, she continued walking, waving her hand dismissively. "I'm off. See you around, maybe."

Watching her walk away, Yuhara smiled and, after a moment, called out, "Thank you, Kotonoha."

He then turned toward the Uchiha clan compound, feeling a sense of urgency. His original plan was to train, but now he wanted to check on Shisui and his meeting with the elder. Training was always better with a partner, especially given the high stakes of his training objectives.

To his surprise, Shisui was waiting at the Uchiha compound gate.

"Yuhara, come with me. The elder wants to see you."

"Alright, I understand."

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(40 Advance chapters)