Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded. Finally, his gaze settled on the young Uchiha Ling, whose bearing was calm and composed.
"Uchiha Ling."
"Lord Hokage." Ling stepped forward, his expression calm.
"As captain of Konoha's Military Police Force, you've demonstrated exceptional ability in the village's affairs. Now that war is upon us, the village needs your strength.
"You'll serve as the captain of a special operations squad attached to Orochimaru's forces on the Western Front. Depart at once and head to the front lines."
"Yes!" Uchiha Ling accepted the order without hesitation.
This was the opportunity he'd been waiting for—the stage on which he could build his reputation and seize power through war.
"I'll personally select the members of your squad."
Hiruzen Sarutobi continued, "Namikaze Minato, and an elite of the Hyuga Clan, Hyuga Tokuma."
Namikaze Minato? Uchiha Ling's thoughts stirred.
It had been a long time since the two had fought side by side. After graduating from the Ninja Academy, they'd each taken on a sensei of their own.
As for Hyuga Tokuma, he belonged to the branch family of the Hyuga Clan. His Byakugan made him an excellent choice for reconnaissance and support.
"Understood!" Uchiha Ling replied again.
After the meeting, everyone immediately went their separate ways. At the designated assembly point, Training Ground 3, Uchiha Ling met his two new teammates.
"Ling! It's been ages!" Namikaze Minato was already waiting there, his bright blond hair and sunny smile as warm as ever. Yet deep in his eyes, there was more composure and sharpness than when he'd been a boy.
Minato wore the standard Konoha Chunin vest and stood tall.
"Minato, it really has been a long time." Uchiha Ling smiled, too.
Uchiha Ling could sense the powerful chakra Minato kept tightly contained. Clearly, he'd made rapid progress under Jiraiya's guidance.