After several fierce battles in the early and middle stages of the Third Shinobi World War, the Hidden Leaf Village had gained a brief respite. On the surface, it had returned to its former order and vitality.
Ever since he had dangled that grand promise in front of Orochimaru, Uchiha Ling had spent his days keeping Kushina company, visiting his mentor Tsunade in the Medical Department, or handling village affairs at the Military Police Force.
Uchiha Ling walked through the newly renovated corridors of the Konoha Military Police Force headquarters. His jōnin vest and the prominent Gunbai clan crest on his back spoke to his status and authority.
The reformed Military Police Force was no longer made up solely of Uchiha as it had been in the past. Now, members of the Hyūga, Inuzuka, Aburame, and other clans could occasionally be seen.
Even ordinary shinobi with keen eyes and plenty of drive would bow respectfully when they passed him, their gazes filled with genuine admiration.
"Captain, here's a summary of recent developments in the other villages, along with reports of some unusual public sentiment within the village."
Uchiha Tekka hurried over and handed Ling a file, his expression somewhat grave.
Ling took the file and quickly skimmed through it as he headed to his office.
Intelligence on the Third Raikage of the Cloud Village remained sketchy, but the targeted killing intent behind it practically leaped off the page.
Iwagakure had gone quiet, but Ōnoki's cunning was not to be underestimated.
As for the Akatsuki, they were still only being monitored through intelligence reports.
Uchiha Ling's gaze eventually settled on the section titled "Internal Public Sentiment."
At first, there had only been scattered discussions about the mission failure rate. But over the past few days, a certain unnatural clamor seemed to