Uchiha with hunger for knowledge

 Saruto sat in the clan chamber, his elder status newly granted but already a mantle he carried with ease. Across from him, Kal stood, his calm demeanor masking the intensity of his thoughts. His earlier revelation about the Second Hokage's death had solidified his father's trust, but now Kal was preparing to push the boundaries further. 

"You've earned my trust, Kal," Saruto began, his voice calm but measured. "But I can see you're not done. There's more to this than you've shared." 

Kal nodded, stepping forward. "You're right, Father. I've been thinking about the future of our clan. The Uchiha have relied on the Sharingan for too long, and while it's powerful, it's also a crutch. I believe we need to broaden our expertise in three critical areas: ninjutsu, illusion, and sealing techniques." 

Saruto raised an eyebrow. "Sealing techniques? That's the domain of the Uzumaki clan. They're still strong, and their secrets are closely guarded." 

"Precisely," Kal replied. "But the Uzumaki aren't invincible. Their mastery of fūinjutsu has made them invaluable allies, but it also makes them predictable. If we can study sealing techniques—starting with what little is available publicly and expanding through careful research—we could adapt and innovate, blending their strengths with our own. Imagine seals that enhance our Sharingan or protect against its drawbacks." 

Saruto leaned back, considering. "And the other areas?" 

"Ninjutsu is the foundation of combat," Kal explained. "If we can refine elemental manipulation and chakra control, we could create techniques that rival the Rasengan and other legendary jutsu. As for illusion…" He hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Genjutsu is where the Sharingan truly excels. But we've barely scratched the surface of its potential. With focused research, we could develop illusions so powerful they redefine the battlefield itself." 

Saruto's gaze sharpened. "This is no small ambition, Kal. The resources alone would be immense. How do you plan to fund and conceal such a venture, especially in wartime?" 

Kal's expression didn't falter. "I've already begun building the foundation. My ventures in publishing and the film industry are a cover, but they're also generating significant income. The research will be conducted far from Konoha, hidden from even the clan's eyes for now. Only a select few will know, and they'll be carefully chosen." 

"And the cost?" Saruto pressed. 

Kal straightened. "The cost will be high—particularly for the ninjutsu and sealing research. But it's a price worth paying. As for illusions…" He paused, choosing his words carefully. "There are aspects of genjutsu I've already been exploring in secret, techniques that require little more than time and creativity. For now, the cost of this particular research is negligible, but its potential is limitless." 

Saruto studied his son closely. "You're hiding something," he said finally. 

Kal's calm mask didn't waver. "Only the details, Father. You've always taught me the importance of keeping some cards close to my chest." 

Saruto allowed a faint smile, though his eyes remained serious. "Very well, Kal. You have my support, but know this: the risks you're taking don't just fall on your shoulders. If you fail, the consequences will affect the entire clan. Proceed with caution." 

Kal bowed deeply. "I understand, Father. I'll ensure the Uchiha rise, no matter the risks." 

As Kal left the chamber, his mind churned with plans. The foundation had been laid, and he had secured his father's trust. 

Later that night, in the solitude of his quarters, Kal stared at the blank scroll before him. Slowly, he began outlining the framework for the research, dividing it into three branches: advanced ninjutsu innovation, illusion mastery, and sealing exploration. 

His thoughts lingered briefly on his lucid dreaming technique, a secret he hadn't shared with anyone. "It costs less than a penny," he thought with a faint smile, "but its value is immeasurable. In my dreams, I can refine techniques, test ideas, and prepare for battles without anyone knowing. This is my true edge, and I'll keep it hidden until the time is right." 

Kal's pen moved across the scroll with purpose. "The Sharingan may be our legacy," he whispered to himself, "but with ninjutsu, illusion, and sealing, we'll create a future that no one can challenge."