Ch. 81The Golden Belt
Key Plot Points and Events
- Uchiha Fugaku tests Uchiha Itachi's loyalty by asking about his support for his Hokage bid and the clan-village relationship.
- Uchiha Itachi lies to please his father but feels guilty about it.
- Uchiha Fugaku, disappointed, decides to use physical discipline on Itachi.
- Uchiha Fugaku uses a Genjutsu to beat Itachi with a golden belt, claiming it's an ancient educational method.
- After the Genjutsu, Uchiha Itachi feels resentment but can't figure out why his father punished him.
- Uchiha Fugaku returns to the Uchiha Compound, where he learns about Sarutobi Asuma's situation from Uchiha Mafu.
- He decides to release Mabui and Samui early to appease Sarutobi Hiruzen and invites Sarutobi Asuma and Yuhi Kurenai for a meeting.
Character Developments
- Uchiha Itachi: Struggles with his loyalty to his father and the clan, feels guilty for lying, and is confused and resentful after his father's punishment.
- Uchiha Fugaku: Disappointed in Itachi's lack of change, decides to use physical discipline, and shows concern for Sarutobi Hiruzen's feelings.
Significant Themes
- The complex father-son relationship between Uchiha Fugaku and Itachi, with Fugaku's disappointment and Itachi's resentment.
- The struggle between loyalty to family/clan and personal beliefs, as seen in Itachi's internal conflict.
- The use of power and discipline, with Fugaku employing physical punishment and considering the feelings of others (Sarutobi Hiruzen) for political reasons.
Character Interactions
- Uchiha Fugaku and Uchiha Itachi: The strained relationship is further emphasized as Fugaku punishes Itachi, and Itachi feels resentment but can't understand his father's actions.
- Uchiha Fugaku and Uchiha Mafu: Fugaku shows trust in Mafu by asking him to handle matters and brings him into his confidence regarding the Sarutobi Asuma situation.
- Uchiha Fugaku and Sarutobi Asuma (implied): Fugaku considers Sarutobi Hiruzen's feelings and invites Asuma for a meeting to release Mabui and Samui early, showing political acumen.