Chapter 65: Let's Begin

The following morning, all Uchiha clan members in various ranks had taken leave. They converged at a forest near a canyon on the outskirts of Konoha. The clan's police force had been preparing early, ensuring that what was to happen today remained a secret from outsiders until it was over.

Elders such as Uchiha Takeshi and Uchiha Sou had been waiting there, eyes closed in apparent calm. However, inwardly, they were far from composed, knowing that both Fugaku and Itachi Uchiha possessed the Mangekyo Sharingan. It was hard for them to reconcile the talents of this father and son duo. Fugaku was seen as weak and indecisive, while Itachi seemed resolutely detached from the clan's affairs, only focused on his brother.

Despite being father and son, the elders found their relationship puzzling and their abilities as Mangekyo users extraordinary. The situation was peculiar: Fugaku hadn't informed Itachi about his Mangekyo Sharingan, nor had Itachi discussed it with his father. Itachi's focus on his brother rather than the clan's impending confrontation left the elders incredulous.

"Their strange lack of communication works in our favor," one elder remarked. "If they collaborated, it would complicate matters for Hara and Shisui."

This peculiar dynamic among the Uchihas relieved the elders somewhat, as it meant fewer complications for their plans.

As the sun rose, casting a bright glow, Hara and Shisui approached the forest center. From the opposite direction, Fugaku Uchiha walked alone, his shadow stretching long under the sunlight, giving an air of loneliness yet a determined aura.

Soon, the three of them stood at the forest's center, with their respective factions quietly assembling behind them. While Hara's side had a numerical advantage, the outcome hinged on the duel between Hara and Fugaku.

"Clan Leader Fugaku, it's been a while," Hara greeted, noting Fugaku's haggard appearance. "You seem tired, not the ideal state for a battle."

"Thank you for your concern, Hara," Fugaku replied, his tone polite but firm. "I am aware of my condition. Rest assured, I am ready."

Hara nodded, knowing that Fugaku's state could work to his advantage. As a capable shinobi, Hara was prepared to exploit any weakness to achieve his goal.

Turning to the elders, both Hara and Fugaku awaited their instructions. After a brief discussion among themselves, Elder Uchiha Sou stepped forward, addressing everyone present.

"Today, we gather to address the impeachment event from a month ago. Clan Leader Fugaku, regardless of today's duel's outcome, you will lose your position as clan leader. Do you have any objections?"

"None," Fugaku replied calmly, having anticipated this outcome since the clan meeting.

"Elder Hara," Sou continued, "if you win, you will become the new Uchiha clan leader. However, if you lose, you won't gain the position immediately but will remain a candidate, still involved in clan affairs. Any objections?"

"None," Hara answered, recognizing the elders' bias in his favor. They were clearly worried about Fugaku's strength and had irrevocably opposed him. Supporting Hara, a fellow Mangekyo Sharingan user with Shisui's backing, seemed their safest bet.

Hara's acceptance was immediate. He understood the elders' apprehension but was confident in his abilities, bolstered by his system-enhanced powers.

Fugaku, showing no objections either, moved toward the cliff's edge, followed by Hara. Given the potential devastation from a clash between two Mangekyo Sharingan users, caution was paramount.

As Hara watched Fugaku walk ahead, his excitement grew. He knew this battle was the culmination of his journey. The decisive moment had arrived.