"Mm! That makes sense. If they really face a crisis and go under, I'll contact them in advance and buy the shopping center."
Torikaze's face darkened. That wasn't what he meant. "Absolutely not. Our family already has enough businesses. If you buy the shopping center too, you'll be squeezing out the other clans' room to survive."
Torikaze rarely made direct purchases anymore. Otherwise, with his resources, he could buy the entire village.
But what would be the point? Would all the other clans be left with no way to make a living, forced to work for Torikaze?
Some clans would definitely be unable to take it, and conflicts would gradually arise.
Torikaze now controlled two schools, several restaurants, the Factory in the back mountain, and a number of scattered investments.
It was quite a lot, but there was still plenty of room for other clans to survive and thrive.
"Fine, whatever you say. I won't buy it, all right? I was just saying it casually anyway. Don't take it seriously."
"Of course I know. It was just an offhand remark. Have fun, and give my regards to your sister-in-law."
Chisato smiled faintly. "All right. Come to think of it, you really haven't visited the Uchiha Clan in quite some time."
Torikaze thought about it. "When I get the chance. I haven't had much free time lately."
Chisato did not mind. She nodded and left.
Hogen also planned to leave with Chisato.
Torikaze did not stop him, letting the mother and son leave together.
Hogen had now taken over from his great-grandfather Shintaro the task of teaching Shisui and Itachi.
After several months, the two boys had grown increasingly close to Hogen. Still, every time they asked to become his disciples, he rejected them.
Yet the two little ones remained persistent