Ch. 561Additional Condition (1)
Chapter Summary
Key Plot Points and Events
- Uchiha Yue and Hatake Kakashi discuss the newly graduated Momochi Zabuza. Kakashi is irritated that Zabuza, a younger shinobi, has already gained the fearsome title of “Demon.”
- Yue reflects on Zabuza’s future significance, recalling that he will eventually become a powerful swordsman, escape Kirigakure after attempting to assassinate the Mizukage, and later fight Kakashi in the original timeline.
- Yue evaluates Zabuza as a potential threat because Kirigakure is his enemy, while Kakashi remains convinced that Zabuza is not yet stronger than either himself or Yue.
- The conversation turns to Sasori of the Red Sands, who has mysteriously disappeared from Sunagakure after Yue previously severed both of his arms.
- Kakashi speculates that Sasori may have been ruined by his injuries, but Yue suspects that Sasori is secretly preparing a major scheme—most likely the assassination of Sunagakure’s Third Kazekage.
- Yue concludes that Sasori’s actions suggest the Third Shinobi World War may be approaching.
- Yue leaves the gathering and visits Uchiha Fugaku to discuss Kirigakure. At Fugaku’s residence, he meets Fugaku’s pregnant wife, Uchiha Mikoto.
- Yue notices Mikoto’s pregnancy and realizes that Uchiha Itachi is about to be born.
- After Yue raises the subject of Kirigakure, Fugaku sends Mikoto away so that the two men can discuss the matter privately.
Character Developments
- Uchiha Yue: Demonstrates foresight, strategic thinking, and awareness of future events. He treats Zabuza as a possible enemy asset and correctly suspects that Sasori’s disappearance signals a larger plot. His status within the Uchiha Clan has also risen greatly due to his Mangekyō Sharingan and achievements in the Land of Water.
- Hatake Kakashi: Displays pride and competitiveness, resenting Zabuza’s rapid rise and reputation. He considers Yue a peer whose achievements should not be overshadowed by Zabuza.
- Momochi Zabuza: Though absent, he is established as a rising and dangerous figure who has already earned the title “Demon” upon graduating.
- Sasori of the Red Sands: His disappearance is portrayed not as defeat or despair, but as a sign that he may be secretly advancing a dangerous plan.
- Uchiha Fugaku: Treats Yue as an important equal and responds seriously to his concerns about Kirigakure.
- Uchiha Mikoto: Appears briefly as Fugaku’s pregnant wife, with her pregnancy marking the imminent birth of Itachi.
Significant Themes
- Reputation versus true strength: Zabuza’s famous title causes Kakashi to feel slighted, while Yue recognizes that titles do not necessarily reflect the full difference in power.
- Foreshadowing and fate: Yue uses his knowledge of the original timeline to anticipate Zabuza’s future, Sasori’s plans, the Third Kazekage’s fate, and Itachi’s birth.
- The approach of war: Sasori’s disappearance and likely plot against the Third Kazekage suggest that the Third Shinobi World War is nearing.
- Power and status within the shinobi world: Yue’s position in the Uchiha Clan reflects the clan’s respect for strength, accomplishments, and the Mangekyō Sharingan.
- Hidden schemes: Sasori’s silence emphasizes that dangerous enemies may be most threatening when they are unseen and preparing in secret.
Character Interactions
- Yue and Kakashi exchange opinions about Zabuza’s abilities and reputation, revealing Kakashi’s competitive pride and Yue’s cautious analysis.
- Yue and Kakashi also discuss Sasori, with Kakashi viewing him as a lost rival while Yue suspects a concealed plan.
- Yue is formally welcomed by the Uchiha guards, highlighting his elevated standing within the clan.
- Yue meets Fugaku and indirectly observes Mikoto’s pregnancy. After Yue raises the issue of Kirigakure, Fugaku dismisses Mikoto so he and Yue can hold a confidential discussion.