CHAPTER 119

"Other than that..."

Namikaze Minato, after thoroughly considering Kai Uchiha's proposal, finally sat down. His posture relaxed, and a rare stillness came over him—it was clear he had accepted the gravity of everything Kai had said.

Across from him, Kai allowed himself a small smile. Minato's calm acceptance spoke louder than words. Though the future Hokage hadn't explicitly declared his stance yet, Kai knew he wouldn't let a golden opportunity like this slip away.

And Kai had no intention of letting him.

"In order to avoid stirring too much unrest within the village," Kai began again, his tone controlled but weighty, "we won't pursue widespread purging."

He paused, weighing how much to reveal. Eventually, he decided to lay it all on the table.

Going all in was risky—it meant showing his hand, revealing his bottom line. But it also made him appear honest, perhaps even trustworthy. He had learned the theory in another life, back in college. Who would've thought such lessons would apply here?

"We'll focus on those who are truly dangerous—unyielding hardliners. The rest will be given a choice: integrate into Konoha, or isolate themselves and risk everything... even their lives."

The words tasted bitter. 'Integrate into the great Konoha family'—the very phrase made him want to retch. But facing someone like Minato, a man wholly devoted to Konoha's ideals, required compromise.

Minato wasn't a blind follower of Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage. He had his own sense of justice. And if he truly was going to become Hokage, the Uchiha clan had to show they were ready to cooperate.

After all, what good was Minato's support if the Uchiha remained insular and defiant?

Minato nodded, thoughtful. "A clean sweep isn't always necessary. Fewer casualties, more control. That's a wise call. And after that?"

Kai didn't miss a beat. "Fugaku-sama will begin restructuring the Konoha Military Police. Some individuals will be dismissed. We'll enforce stricter standards on conduct, especially during patrols and missions."

He shrugged. "Let's be honest—they've been overstepping. We plan to open recruitment to other clans. Even civilian-born ninja."

Minato's eyes lit up slightly—he understood the implications. This wasn't just a policy change; it was a public relations miracle. The Military Police Force, under Uchiha control since the village's founding, had become a symbol of tyranny to many commoners. Harsh methods, clan arrogance—it all built resentment.

A reformed force could rehabilitate the clan's image in the eyes of Konoha.

"And the final piece... is internal reform."

Kai's voice lowered, steady and resolute. "The Uchiha clan has grown too detached from Konoha. People like me, born on the margins, see this clearly. But others..." he let the thought trail off.

"We need to suppress that detachment. Challenge the old mindset. Force change."

Everything he and Fugaku had prepared was now in play. These proposals—if enacted—would bind the Uchiha to the village's future. But he knew it wouldn't come easy. There would be backlash.

They'd call him a traitor.

They'd say he destroyed the clan's last pride.

Did he care?

Not at all.

Fugaku would take the brunt of it publicly. Kai didn't crave their approval. He only wanted survival—his own and the clan's.

"Decades from now," he muttered inwardly, "maybe some Uchiha child will thank us. But that's not my concern. I just want this plan to succeed."

He locked eyes with Minato, who remained silent. But Kai could see the thoughts running deep behind those calm, clear eyes.

Finally, Minato spoke. "Your plan... it's thorough. And if it works, it prevents a direct conflict with Konoha."

"But who wants to live with a blade hanging over their neck?" Kai responded smoothly. "Besides, our reforms can also serve you. A show of strength and unity when you take office. Political capital."

"You talk like I'm already Hokage," Minato said, half-smiling, but with a note of caution. "Don't speak too freely about Lord Third. And… are you sure I'll even make it that far? What if I fail?"

Kai tilted his head. "That's why we're preparing. We'll back you—but we're also building ties with smaller clans and civilian ninja. Financial support, promises of mutual protection. If you rise, we rise with you. And if you don't... at least we won't be alone."

He fell silent. Everything had been said. Now, all he could do was wait for Minato's answer.

Minato's gaze sharpened. His hesitation faded, replaced with quiet conviction.

"I don't think I have much of a choice," he said, rising to his feet. "There's a lot to discuss. Should I speak with Fugaku directly?"

Kai stood as well. "He's expecting you."

Minato offered his hand. "Then let's work together, Kai-kun."

Kai took it firmly. "Likewise, Minato-kun."