The night wind howled across the cliff.
Shisui clutched his empty right eye socket, blood dripping through his fingers onto the dirt.
Fugaku's words echoed along the deserted cliff, every word reaching him clearly.
Shisui leaned against the rough rock, his expression vacant.
He had always believed the higher-ups simply lacked an understanding of him and the Uchiha.
He had thought that if he gave them his heart and soul, offering Kotoamatsukami without reservation, he could thaw the ice between the two sides.
Reality had delivered a resounding slap to his face.
Far from being moved, Danzo had gouged out his right eye on the spot.
The Third Hokage's supposed kindness and trust had proved worthless in the face of ruthless self-interest.
Shisui raised his remaining left eye to look at Fugaku, who stood before him.
"Clan leader, did Deputy Captain Chikage... really predict this days ago?"
Fugaku folded his arms, his tone tinged with mockery.
"What do you think?"
"That kid Chikage talks about getting off work on time every single day, but he's sharper than anyone."
"He said it long ago: the higher-ups talk about the greater good, but all they care about is their own interests."
"Handing over Kotoamatsukami was no different from putting your own neck in a noose."
Fugaku stepped forward and slapped a Medical Scroll against Shisui's chest.
"Stop the bleeding. Don't die beside the Naka River and foul it for nothing."
Shisui tore open the bandages and pressed the Hemostatic Herbs against the wound in his right eye socket.
An agonizing sting shot through him, but his mind grew clearer.
"I understand now."
Shisui spoke quietly, a new resolve in his voice.
"I was blind before."
"I kept thinking I could sacrifice myself for so-called peace, and I nearly destroyed the Family instead."