Leaf Frontline Camp · Command tent
Tianyi lifted the entrance flap and strode inside.
Inside the tent, seven or eight captain-level shinobi were gathered around a map, discussing something in low voices.
At the sound, they all looked up, their gazes settling on the newcomer.
After a brief silence, someone recognized him.
"Tianyi!"
"It's Hyuga Tianyi!"
"Back on the battlefield in the Land of Rain, he saved me with Medical Ninjutsu..."
Amid the whispers, several pairs of eyes lit up with enthusiasm.
Many of those present had fought in the Second Shinobi World War, that brutal conflict.
Though Tianyi belonged to the Hyuga Branch House, his superb Medical Ninjutsu and record of saving countless lives on the battlefield had already earned him a name in the Ninja World.
More importantly, he was Tsunade's apprentice, with impeccable credentials, formidable strength, and outstanding Medical Ninjutsu. No one could question a man like him.
But now, as they watched Tianyi walk straight toward the seat at the center of the tent, their expressions turned puzzled.
That seat represented the authority of the frontline commander-in-chief.
By convention, Lady Tsunade should have occupied it.
Tianyi offered no explanation. He simply sat down calmly in the commander's seat.
The entrance flap lifted again, and Tsunade walked in.
She said nothing, merely folded her arms and stood by the entrance, a faint smile playing at her lips as she watched Tianyi.
Her stance made it clear to everyone that he would be the commander-in-chief this time.
Silence fell over the tent for a moment.
Then everyone understood at once.
"Greetings, Commander-in-chief!"
The seven or eight captains snapped to attention and solemnly saluted Tianyi.
Lady Tsunade's personal support was the strongest endorsement he could have.
Tianyi nodded slightly, sweeping his gaze over them.
"Everyone, time is short, so