Chapter 48: Shisui's Resolve

"It seems Itachi refused your invitation. Didn't you explain it clearly to him?"

"I'm sorry, Yuhara. I couldn't convince him. Perhaps I didn't express it clearly enough, which led him to reject our ideas."

In a modestly decorated room, Yuhara, Shisui, and several Uchiha elders, including Uchiha Zong and Uchiha Takechi, were seated together. Shisui appeared quite remorseful. He had recounted his meeting with Itachi in detail, explaining how he had presented their plans. Both Yuhara and the elders felt that Shisui's explanation was adequate. He had neither revealed Yuhara's involvement nor disclosed their upcoming actions. He had merely outlined a universally understood fact: the clan should not be weak but also not arrogant. They sought peace and fairness, aiming to make Konoha hear their voice—nothing more.

However, Itachi seemed to have only heard that the Uchiha wanted to rebel against the Hokage and Konoha. The problem lay in the fact that the Hokage and Konoha were intertwined, yet distinct. Their resistance was against the Hokage, not Konoha. They wanted their voices heard by everyone in Konoha, not to wage war against it. Itachi's attitude troubled them deeply. It was clear he vehemently opposed any conflict between the clan and the village, yearning for a peaceful consensus.

"I've always said that Itachi is a steadfast individual who won't easily change his stance or beliefs," Uchiha Zong sighed, not wanting to criticize Shisui too harshly. He understood the close relationship between Shisui and Itachi and didn't want to add to Shisui's burden, especially since this failure had clearly affected him. He also acknowledged that Yuhara's attempt to recruit Itachi had failed, making further discussion unnecessary.

"Let's not dwell on this failure. It's not your fault, Shisui. Perhaps I didn't give you enough to say. I'll meet with him next time," Yuhara consoled Shisui, shaking his head. He wasn't overly disappointed with Itachi's decision. While it was unfortunate that a potential Mangekyō Sharingan wielder wouldn't join them, Yuhara wasn't one to dwell on such matters. Itachi's mindset was extreme, and unlike Shisui, who had shown weakness in moments of despair, Itachi had the potential to coldly eliminate his entire clan, sparing only his beloved brother. Even though Itachi's actions might seem righteous from Konoha's perspective, Yuhara questioned whether Konoha was truly in the right.

Shaking his head, Yuhara decided not to ponder Itachi's choices further. Whatever misunderstandings or decisions had led to this point, he had to follow through with his own choices in this harsh world. One must be accountable for their decisions.

"Thank you for your reassurance, Yuhara. I'm fine," Shisui forced a smile, taking a deep breath and speaking with determination. "Although Itachi's decision is regrettable, some things are beyond our control."

Pausing briefly, Shisui's expression grew more serious. "So, what we need to do is look ahead and do our best. Only by doing so can we show him that we are right, that our choice is the correct one!"

Yuhara nodded at Shisui's resolve, though he wondered if proving themselves right would make any difference. Would Itachi ever come back to them? Even if he did, would the elders accept him? This incident would undoubtedly be reported, creating a rift, regardless of its significance. After all, who likes a traitor?

Thinking of traitors, Yuhara glanced at Shisui. Once considered a traitor himself, Shisui had earned his place through dedication.

"What's on your mind, Yuhara?" Shisui noticed Yuhara's gaze and felt uneasy.

"Nothing, just thinking," Yuhara replied, shaking his head. After a moment of contemplation, he asked, "If, hypothetically, Itachi chooses to oppose us and acts on his words, what would you do?"

Shisui had relayed Itachi's threatening words, which were known to Yuhara and the elders. They were curious about how Shisui would handle his 'brother' if it came to that.

"I will stop him. I won't let him become an obstacle," Shisui declared without hesitation. "If it comes to the point of no return, I will not hesitate. He has his beliefs, and I have mine. Even though I still consider him my brother, there are some things I cannot concede!"

Shisui's resolute attitude brought smiles to Yuhara and the elders' faces. They didn't want any disruptions at this critical juncture, especially since they had already made significant progress in resolving conflicts between the moderate and hardline factions within the clan. Yuhara had visited and connected with the clan's lower ranks, understanding their needs and concerns. The plan was to confront Uchiha Fugaku at the clan meeting the following night, potentially forcing him to step down—a historic move for the Uchiha.

Despite their worries, Shisui hadn't let them down this time. "You don't need to handle such cruel tasks. We trust you," Yuhara said, patting Shisui's shoulder. "If necessary, I'll deal with him. At least I don't have any personal ties with him. Focus on preparing yourself for tomorrow. It's a crucial day for us."

Indeed, the clan meeting would mark the beginning of the Uchiha's transformation. Shisui silently clenched his fists, determined to walk this path despite the setback with Itachi. As he had said, he needed to look forward and do his best, proving to Itachi who was truly right.

"I'll show you, Itachi!"