Sarutobi Hiruzen thought of Qianyu.
Of his methods.
Of his nephew's death.
Hatred stirred.
Worse still—
He realized Qianyu's actions might actually change public opinion.
After all, Sarutobi Jirō and his father had enraged everyone.
To many villagers, Qianyu's brutality felt just.
That realization gave Hiruzen a headache.
But aloud, he said gently:
"Shisui, I understand those people."
"Qianyu helped them. He removed their suffering."
"But—"
"If everyone could kill without trial, based solely on personal justice…"
"What would this world become?"
"Today a gambler deserves death."
"Tomorrow a petty thief."
"Today an accidental killer."
"Tomorrow an innocent framed as guilty."
"Do not worship personal justice."
"Do not worship lone heroes."
"Admire those who use just means to carry out justice."
Shisui nodded thoughtfully.
"I understand now."
"Thank you for guiding me back."
Hiruzen smiled.
"You and Itachi are Konoha's best hope."
"Therefore…"
"I need you to suppress the Uchiha's rising hostility."
Shisui's heart shook.
This was trust.
"I will do everything in my power."
"Good."
Smoke filled the room.
The stench of decay grew stronger.
On patrol—
"If one day Yamafū and I committed a crime…"
"Would you kill us too?"
Aoki asked quietly.
"Yes."
Qianyu answered flatly.
They exchanged bitter smiles.
"So cold…"
"Is there nothing in your heart besides justice?"
"There is."
"What?"
"The power needed to enforce justice."
"…And comrades? Friends? Clan?"
Qianyu scanned the village like a vulture.
"Clan sentiment breeds injustice."
"We are law enforcers first."
"If you cling to identity, you've already lost fairness."
They fell silent.
"But we're human…"
"Which is why this world needs me."
"So what are we to you?"
Qianyu stopped.
"Not subordinates."
"Not brothers."
"Followers—who may inherit my will."
"Perhaps that's wishful thinking."
"But even a little influence…"
"Is hope."
"I'll follow you."
"So will I."
Qianyu nodded.
In his eyes—
This was a spark.
Elsewhere—
"I want Uchiha Qianyu to die."
Sarutobi Hiyū roared.
Before burial.
Before mourning.
Hatred ignited.
Two to three dozen Sarutobi clan members followed him toward Uchiha territory.
Hiyū gripped his blade.
"Jirō… wait for me."
"Qianyu will join you soon."