Chapter 193: Closing the Net
"How are things going?" Kawakaze asked as he entered the Uchiha clan grounds. Rather than heading home from the practice range, he had come straight here to meet Fugaku.
The two sat face to face, their interaction relaxed and informal—a sign of their growing familiarity.
"It's almost time to close the net," Fugaku replied, his concern evident. He had been keeping close tabs on the matter, asking for updates daily and staying fully aware of the progress.
"Thank you for your trouble," Kawakaze said with a smile, taking a sip of tea.
"It's all trivial matters," Fugaku said lightly, though both knew the risks the Uchiha were taking. If Hiruzen Sarutobi discovered their involvement, it would result in an irreparable rift.
"How is it going with the Konoha Military Police Force?" Kawakaze asked, shifting the topic. He had already given his promise to support the Uchiha, and he intended to honor it fully.
"He's placed several Sarutobi Clan members in positions of power," Fugaku explained. "But I've ensured they hold roles of little significance. So far, they've been behaving themselves and haven't caused any trouble."
"That's good. How much did you have to pay?" Kawakaze asked, nodding at Fugaku's careful handling of the situation.
"In the past, we funded our own allowances. Now, the village covers them," Fugaku said with a satisfied smile. "We're saving quite a bit every month, and everyone is living more comfortably."
Fugaku's tone carried a touch of humor. While the Uchiha Clan wasn't in need of money, the shift in funding provided psychological satisfaction more than financial relief.
"Look at the little success you've had," Kawakaze teased with a grin before continuing. "Then we'll close the net tomorrow."