"That's enough for today," Gen said, leaning back against the tree trunk. "I've talked so much my throat's dry. And—don't repeat any of this to anyone. Not even your parents."
Itachi blinked, puzzled. Shisui frowned. "Why?"
Gen's gaze slid to him. "It's fine if a clansman hasn't awakened their Sharingan. But the ones who have? You know what they're like, Shisui. If they catch wind of this, they'll strut around like their tails grew three feet long. It'll cause more problems than it solves."
Shisui paused, then nodded slowly. "You're right… I didn't think about that."
"I won't tell Father or Mother," Itachi promised, lips pressing into a thin line.
"Good." Gen pushed off from the broad treetop. "Keep training. I'm going to get some water... be back later."
He had just shifted his weight to leap when Shisui called out, "Gen, wait!"
He turned back, brow raised. "What is it?"
Shisui scratched the back of his head. "Those historical records you've been reading… could I borrow them?" Seeing Gen's expression change, he hurried to add, "It's not that I don't believe you. I just… want to see those turbulent years for myself."
Itachi's eyes lit instantly, curiosity sparking.
Gen kept his face calm, voice even. "Shisui, it's not that I'm unwilling. First, they belong to Orochimaru. I'm just borrowing them. Second, it's not a book or two but an entire room's worth. The ninja world doesn't even keep proper history books anymore. What I've shared comes from pulling threads from all over, cross-checking scraps, and making inferences."
He snorted. "And don't get me started on how ridiculous that is. We live in a village with massive Hokage faces carved into a mountain, and yet Anbu can't recognize the First and Second Hokage when they're standing in front of them. The Sannin, the people who bled for Konoha, are strangers to the next generation."
He thought, If I ever run the place, history is going on the academy curriculum.
Shisui chuckled awkwardly. "Fair enough. Guess I was overthinking."
"It's fine. You didn't know. There's too much to read, and I haven't finished myself. When I dig up something new, I'll share it."
"Alright. See you tonight."
Gen vanished in a flicker.
Shisui and Itachi went back to training, though their minds were still replaying his words.
That evening, the two came to fetch Gen for a clan banquet. They walked the district together, nodding to passing clansmen before arriving at Fugaku's home.
Fugaku and Mikoto waited at the door, welcoming them warmly before ushering everyone inside. Dinner was orderly—strict clan rules meant no talking while eating. Without alcohol, the meal was quick; Gen found Mikoto's cooking more than satisfying.
Afterward, tea was served in the living room. Itachi slipped away to his room, scribbling down everything Gen had said that day. Mikoto, dressed in a simple black home outfit, carried in the tray barefoot, kneeling gracefully to pour for each of them.
Gen accepted his cup, then glanced at Fugaku. "Clan Head… what's your take on getting Senior Setsuna out of Konoha Prison?"
Mikoto's hands stilled for half a breath, but her face remained composed.
Fugaku's eyes narrowed slightly. "Why bring that up?"
"You've only just taken the seat. Your foundation isn't solid yet. With Senior Setsuna's support..."
High-sounding excuse, Fugaku thought. This brat's just looking to stir things between me and the elders. But… it might work.
"I'd like to," Fugaku said carefully, "but it won't be easy."
Gen leaned forward. "Not now, maybe. But when the new Hokage takes office? Setsuna's been locked up nearly twenty years; he's paid for what happened. Our clan fought in the Third War and got nothing in return. If you and the right elders speak humbly to the new Hokage, play up loyalty and contribution, you might succeed."
He looked to Shisui and Mikoto. "What do you think?"
Shisui's grin was immediate. "Excellent strategy."
Mikoto's smile warmed. "It can be done. Gen, thank you for thinking of my father and Fugaku."
"That's only natural." Gen sipped his tea, hiding the twist of amusement in his thoughts.
If Setsuna walks free, it won't just cut into the elders' power... it'll nibble at Fugaku's too. And who says fathers-in-law always side with sons-in-law? Once a hawk, always a hawk. No prison can grind that out entirely.
This, he decided, would be his quiet revenge.