Naruto: Blind Uchiha

After taking a walk with Izuna that day, Uchiha Kiyoshi decided to change his approach. He no longer confined himself indoors to adjust to his new limitations. Instead, he began walking around the Uchiha compound with the aid of a simple cane crafted by his younger brothers.

His behavior stirred mixed reactions among the clan.

The older generation, hardened by years on the battlefield, and the young children unfamiliar with his past, criticized him. Yet, those closer to his age, particularly the young ninja led by Uchiha Akihiko, supported him unconditionally.

Every time Kiyoshi left his house, one of his peers without a mission would accompany him.

"I'm sorry for troubling you," Kiyoshi said with a faint smile.

Akihiko, walking beside him, looked awkward. His eyes lingered on the scar across Kiyoshi's face before he replied, "If you really think you're troubling us, then get better already. We still have a fight to finish."

"You're still hung up on that, Akihiko?" Kiyoshi chuckled softly. "Why not spar with me now?"

Akihiko frowned, glaring briefly at a child who had been whispering about Kiyoshi's scars. "Spar with you? What do you think I am? A guy who bullies blind men?"

Kiyoshi remained calm. "It's only taijutsu. I've started practicing again."

Akihiko rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Then let's head to the training ground? There'll be fewer onlookers there."

Kiyoshi shook his head, his voice steady. "No need to hide anymore. Let's use the clan's training grounds. It's time to stop protecting me. Once this war is over, things will fall into place."

Akihiko studied Kiyoshi's attire, his gaze lingering on the scar that ran across his face. His expression faltered for a moment, then turned into a half-hearted scoff. "You're really something. Not even covering your scars? You want people to keep talking?"

Kiyoshi smirked, raising a single finger. "Sometimes, you have to leave clues to guide people. It's all part of the plan, right?"

"Tch, you're wasting my sympathy," Akihiko muttered, hooking an arm around Kiyoshi's neck. "Fine, let's head to the training ground. I'm itching to beat you up."

"Just go easy on me," Kiyoshi said, tapping the ground with his cane. "And slow down—unlike you, I have to count my steps."

Akihiko obliged, matching Kiyoshi's pace. The sound of the cane tapping against the ground echoed between them.

...

Akihiko was no fool. He had pieced together the events surrounding Kiyoshi's injuries.

The clan believed the rumors: that Kiyoshi had failed his mission, leading to the Senju Clan gouging out his eyes. This narrative caused the Uchiha to retreat from the front lines in fear of further retaliation. But Akihiko knew better.

He realized it was all a setup—one Kiyoshi had orchestrated.

The rumors allowed the clan to redirect their anger and focus on preparing for the future. By temporarily retreating from the battlefield, the clan avoided unnecessary losses. Now that the tide of war was turning against the Senju, Kiyoshi had re-emerged, visibly injured but unyielding.

His unhidden scars served as a reminder to the clan, a rallying point for their guilt and pride. Kiyoshi's plan wasn't just about restoring his reputation. It also strengthened Madara's position as the next leader and united the clan under a shared purpose.

Akihiko snorted quietly at the realization. He admired Kiyoshi's cunning, even if it annoyed him.

"You really thought this all through, didn't you?" Akihiko muttered.

Kiyoshi smiled faintly. "I only did what I could. My father and the elders supported the plan. I just... made some suggestions."

"You're a lunatic," Akihiko said, shaking his head. "Even while being blind and injured, you're still scheming, ugh!"

Kiyoshi chuckled. "What else can I do? I can't contribute much in my current state. If I want to support the clan, I have to use my influence while I still have it."

Akihiko sighed, his respect for Kiyoshi growing despite himself. "Does Madara know you're this ruthless?"

Kiyoshi's expression softened at the mention of his younger brother. "Madara's talented and determined. He'll surpass me one day. I'm certain of it."

Akihiko scoffed. "Maybe. But that stubborn idealism of his? Not everyone will follow a leader like that."

Kiyoshi nodded thoughtfully. "Perhaps. But if someone ever shares his vision, truly understands him... they'll create something extraordinary together. A shared dream can change everything."

"Your 'brother complex' is showing again," Akihiko teased.

"You're one to talk," Kiyoshi retorted with a sly grin. "Shall I remind you of that time—"

"Stop!" Akihiko interrupted, covering Kiyoshi's mouth. "Don't bring up past history, or I'll use ninjutsu to shut you up!"

Kiyoshi pulled his hand away, laughing. "Fine, but you better clear the training ground. I can't see anymore, so I won't hold back even if someone gets caught in the crossfire."

The sound of their playful banter and Akihiko's mock threats filled the air as they made their way to the training ground.

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