Seven in the evening.
The sun had already set, and night gradually shrouded the land. The streets had begun to grow deserted. As conflicts between the nations became increasingly frequent, trade routes had suffered greater and greater disruption. The large merchant caravans once seen everywhere were rapidly shrinking before the eye, while more and more Konoha ninja were being conscripted to guard posts outside the village. The streets had consequently become much quieter.
Death was not the only impact of war. Commercial decline and desolation were also among the wounds it inflicted.
Compared to the village streets, the Uchiha Clan Compound was even quieter at this hour.
Te-yaki Shop.
This was a small restaurant opened in the compound by an ordinary elderly Uchiha couple. It had originally specialized in simple meals such as pancakes, but had recently added sushi and yakitori to its menu. It also offered private dining rooms, so the Uchiha Clan's ninja frequented it often.
Although the merchants on the village's commercial streets did not dare show the Uchiha of the Konoha Military Police Force any disrespect, eating and drinking while others trembled with fear and treated them with excessive deference made even the Uchiha feel rather uncomfortable. Thus, they were generally more willing to spend their money at businesses within the clan compound.
The paper lanterns hanging outside cast a soft orange glow, and the three bold black characters for Te-yaki Shop stood out especially clearly upon them.
When Uchiha Tokimitsu reached the entrance, the enthusiastic owner, Uchiha Te-yaki, and his wife, Uchiha Kashi, warmly greeted him.
"Young Lord Tokimitsu, welcome~"
"Good evening, Uncle Teppan." Uchiha Tokimitsu politely greeted them both, showing no disdain just because they were ordinary people. "I have an appointment with Cousin Fugaku. Has he arrived?"
"The Young Clan Head is already