The stone-paved path leading to the clan head's residence.
Not long ago, Uchiha Yao had walked this path once already.
But this time, Uchiha Yao's purpose was completely different.
Uchiha Yao had come for the final negotiation.
Or rather, a final ultimatum.
If he could persuade Uchiha Fugaku to smoothly hand over power, it would save a great deal of trouble.
Inside the study.
Uchiha Fugaku sat upright in the seat of honor. Before him, an exquisite tea set gave off curling steam.
"Sit."
Uchiha Fugaku gestured for Uchiha Yao to sit.
Uchiha Yao sat across from Fugaku, his gaze meeting Fugaku's.
"Clan Head Fugaku, you should understand why I'm here."
Uchiha Yao got straight to the point without any detours.
Uchiha Fugaku fell silent for a moment, lifted his teacup, and took a careful sip.
Fugaku set the cup down.
"Yao, you've done very well."
"The Police Force's efficiency, the clan's assets, and those children who awakened the Sharingan... I have seen all of it."
"The changes you've brought to the clan far exceeded my expectations."
Uchiha Yao said nothing, merely waiting quietly for what came next.
"But the position of clan head is different."
Fugaku's voice deepened.
"I cannot hand it over to you."
"Why?"
Uchiha Yao asked only two words, simple and direct.
"Because it is the glory of my line of Uchiha Fugaku, a responsibility passed down by our ancestors."
Fugaku's voice deepened.
"I can tolerate you stripping away my authority. I can allow you to carry out your reforms."
"But this position symbolizes the legitimate line of the Uchiha."
"I cannot discard this honor in my hands."
After speaking, Uchiha Fugaku quietly looked at Uchiha Yao with his black eyes. Some kind of pressure seemed to be gathering within them.
Uchiha Yao merely chuckled softly,