Shisui spoke through gritted teeth.
The Uchiha Jōnin glared at him, unwilling to let him say any more.
Elder Xia Le had only just returned to the clan and joined the war. This really was no time to discuss such things.
"Conflicts have always existed."
"What matters is how we deal with them."
"But these aren't problems you youngsters need to worry about."
Xia Le still wore a smile.
"Don't worry. Leave everything to us old fellows!"
At that, he let out another long sigh.
"If the clan has to rely on you youngsters to handle its affairs..."
"Then the Uchiha Clan really will have reached the end of the road!"
Itachi seemed to have drifted off beside them. Only after hearing Xia Le's words did he widen his eyes and look curiously at this teacher he had acquired so unexpectedly.
Both his father and the many adults in the clan seemed to think very highly of the elder before him.
Everyone in the clan clearly respected him, too.
"Shisui, you're still young. Don't weigh yourself down with so many worries."
"You'll grow old!"
Xia Le reached out again and tapped his forehead.
"Trust us. The adults will solve every problem!"
Shisui smiled, then muttered, "I'm not a kid anymore. I'm already a Genin!"
"And I'm about to become a Chunin!"
Still, Elder Xia Le's words had clearly eased his burden and helped him settle down.
This man, who always wore a smile and was called the strongest Uchiha, put on no airs at all. He was mild, gentle, and utterly approachable.
He was completely different from Elder Setsuna.
"Until our combat orders arrive, let's get some rest!"
Xia Le spoke once more.
Everyone answered, then went about their own business.
Itachi and Shisui shared quarters. That night, the two