64. Accepting Fighting Challenge From Kiyomi

64. Accepting Fighting Challenge From Kiyomi

Meanwhile, hearing Kiyomi's direct and ambitious opening and approach, Hikari felt a flicker of appreciation inwardly,

'So she's straightforward and has her eyes on bigger goals, not just the usual conceited and biased talk I expected from an Uchiha.',

'It seems the Uchiha are looking for more than just a simple joint defensive pact of strategic deterrence against Hokage's Faction. They want to regain their lost rights additionally and won't hesitate to cooperate for that goal.',Discover new chapters at novelhall.com

'This aligns perfectly with what I've been planning for the future as well...', He thought, reassured by the realization.

Hikari also pondered the depth of commitment Kiyomi and her grandfather held for their clan, appreciating their ability to set aside their faction's deeply rooted personal pride against other clans in such a crucial moment so swiftly.

'Indeed, the Uchiha clan and their radical faction especially are often misinterpreted...', He pondered, 'What outsiders label as 'hate' or 'extremism' is, in their eyes, a profound love for their kin. I can see the rationale behind that perspective... It is just that they were probably given no other exit but to rebel, unlike like this time thanks to my actions and changes...',

Hikari's mind then raced further, connecting dots and deciphering why the Uchiha's participation in their coalition flowed so seamlessly,

'Moreover, for the 'Doves' there, this development probably symbolizes a historic leap towards integrating the Uchiha more fully into Konoha's societal and political fabric. It's a move towards acceptance and unity, something they've always wanted for their clan to have as much safety as possible.',

'On the other hand, the Hawks also probably view this as an opportunity to reclaim their clan's rights and to take a stand against the Hokage's faction, a direct action aligning perfectly with their more confrontational stance and ideology of fighting actively instead of being passive.',

Hikari realized that this alliance offered something to both factions within the Uchiha clan, making it a unique proposition that could unite them under a common cause, 'This really is a win-win situation for both factions then.',

'So, she is probably supported by everyone in the Uchiha clan. By representing her clan today, she might actually be bridging the gap between the Doves and Hawks, embodying a unity that's been absent in the Uchiha for too long.',

He then considered the role of the Uchiha clan's Patriarch Fugaku and his line, and their supporters, within the clan, often seen as the 'third' broader faction within the clan, and often seen as the moderating force within the clan, balancing the more extreme views of the Doves and Hawks,

'The Patriarch's line, acting as the neutral arbiters, would likely view this alliance as a strategic move that doesn't contradict their overarching aim of maintaining clan unity and promoting its interests within Konoha. Instead, it would go in positive directions for both.',

'This doesn't go against their policies; in fact, it might even support their goals by providing a platform for the Uchiha to assert themselves as a key player in village politics while patching up some internal strife.',

Before the meeting, Hikari had thoroughly reviewed the privileged intelligence gathered by the Hyuga clan on the Uchiha's internal and external challenges in general in great detail.

This historical perspective brought Hikari to a contemplation of the ironic twists of fate. In a relatively short span, the moderate Dove faction, which had once heralded an era of cooperation and peace with Konoha, would give rise to prodigies like Itachi and Shisui.

These individuals, despite their unparalleled talents and intentions for peace, would inadvertently precipitate the clan towards its tragic epilogue, playing into the very extinction Madara had predicted, manipulated by the machinations of Konoha's leadership.

Hikari marveled at the cyclical nature of history within the Uchiha clan, where the once discredited views of the Hawks found vindication in the village's actions, only for the subsequent generation of less numerous and 'counted out' moderates, bearing the hope of reconciliation and peace, to unwittingly march towards a preordained final tragedy.

Meanwhile, outwardly, Kiyomi's demeanor shifted palpably, the weight of clan politics momentarily lifting from her shoulders. A playful smirk danced across her lips, her eyes sparkling with a competitive zeal that hadn't been evident in their discussion thus far as she watched him finish contemplating, cutting him off before he could respond back to her.

"Before we dive deeper into our discussion, Hikari-san, I have a small, somewhat personal request...", She said, her voice lighter, laced with an almost teasing amusement, "I'd like us to spar, right here.",

"You see, I haven't really had the chance to test my skills against a peer opponent close to my age and reputed to be of similar strength. And I'll confess, your reputation has piqued my curiosity. And you see, by the way, this how we, the Uchiha, typically like to construct our relations with others... Therefore, I hope that you won't mind and this won't offend you."

Her confidence was unshaken, her pride in her abilities clear, and her competitive nature surfaced unabashedly at his time.

This challenge, thrown down almost playfully, contrasted starkly with the serious, strategic thinker she had presented moments before in the eyes of Hikari, who also anticipated it.

Hikari's response was more measured, but his smile hinted at an understanding of her after hearing her and going back to present from his thoughts,

"I see where you're coming from, Kiyomi-san. The Uchiha clan's emphasis on strength is well-known, and it's only natural for you to seek an understanding of the dynamics between us, especially considering our potential future interactions. It's sensible...",

He acknowledged, noting their secluded location beyond Konoha and its sensory barriers as an ideal setting, "I agree to your request. It seems we're in a perfect place, free from unwanted observation."

Internally, Hikari was not surprised by Kiyomi's challenge; it was almost expected, 'So, it comes down to this...', He thought, 'A battle to gauge my capabilities and talents...', He pondered the deeper implications of her request, knowing that there may be more to it other than her own personality type and feelings of curiosity and her wanting to prove herself.

'This was also probably influenced by her role within the Uchiha and her current mission today. She's not just seeking to understand my abilities now but also the potential the entire Hyuga clan possesses because of me for the future under the orders of her higher-ups...',

However, Hikari was also quick to see the advantage for him in Kiyomi's challenge. He knew that if he managed to defeat her effortlessly right now, it would not only prove his strength and talent but also significantly bolster his and the Hyuga clan's entire negotiating power with the Uchiha in the future passively. Winning easily would leave a strong impression on the Uchiha, ensuring they took him and his clan more seriously in all future discussions.

"Then, please be careful, Hikari-kun... I'm about to start...", Kiyomi announced, her smile widening briefly at Hikari's composed, unsurprised reaction, almost as if he had anticipated this challenge from the outset and his confident demeanor, unconsciously treating her as a non-threat in her view.

There was a flicker of excitement in her eyes, a spark ignited by the prospect of disrupting his serene, controlled demeanor, 'Let's see how long that calm lasts...', She mused internally, her playful smirk morphing into a focused, determined expression as she prepared to move.