The next morning.
Uchiha Fugaku gathered everyone at the outpost, unrolled the scroll sent from the village, and began assigning their new mission.
"Counting the newcomers, there are eight of us at the outpost. This mission is to intercept reinforcements from Sunagakure." His gaze swept across the group, carrying an unquestionable authority.
"According to intelligence, the first wave of reinforcements consists of around twelve people, divided into four Chunin squads. Sunagakure's Jonin are all on the main battlefield against the Land of Water, so this should be a simple cleanup mission."
He paused, then announced the arrangements. "Uchiha Sen and I will each lead a squad and take separate routes. The mission begins now!"
But after the order was given, an odd silence fell over the group.
Several of the newly arrived ninjas started to move, only to realize that the veterans beside them hadn't budged. They quickly stopped, confusion written across their faces.
"Captain Fugaku..." one of the veterans said hesitantly. "I think... maybe we should hear Sen's thoughts first? After all, he's our strongest fighter..."
At that, everyone's eyes turned to Sen, who stood in the corner.
Before Sen could say anything, Fugaku's expression darkened. "That's an order! Are you trying to defy your captain?!"
Just as he was about to lose his temper, his closest confidant, Uchiha Hitomi, reached over and patted him on the shoulder, speaking in a low voice. "Captain, hear him out."
Fugaku looked at Uchiha Hitomi in disbelief.
His father had assigned this man to stay by his side from the day he was born. Hitomi was his most loyal shadow and had never once questioned him. And now, he was actually...
A deep unease welled up inside Fugaku. What kind of hold did Uchiha Sen have over people? Could he really become