Steadying himself, Yechen pulled aside the tent flap and stepped inside.
Orochimaru, dressed in combat gear, stood before a map with two Jonin, discussing their battle plans.
Yechen stayed by the entrance without approaching or interrupting. He had little interest in what they were discussing.
Over ten minutes later, the three stopped talking. Orochimaru sent the other two out before turning his attention to Yechen.
Feeling the pressure and bloodlust radiating from Orochimaru's gaze, Yechen's eyes flashed scarlet. The instant he activated his Three-Tomoe Sharingan, he forced Orochimaru's aura back, even trapping him in an illusion before he realized it.
Orochimaru's pupils abruptly contracted, then his slit pupils returned to normal. He broke free of the illusion, utterly shaken.
It was not as though he had never seen a Sharingan before, but what Yechen had shown him was truly shocking. To think a mere three tomoe could accomplish so much.
Was every Uchiha this powerful, or only the boy standing before him?
"Greetings, Lord Orochimaru."
Yechen deactivated his Sharingan and gave a slight bow.
At his words, Orochimaru came back to himself and began weighing his next move.
"Yechen, the Flame Demon Sharingan. I've wanted to meet you for quite some time, but other matters kept me occupied. Now that we've finally met, you truly are a young prodigy—and a blessing for Konoha." Orochimaru walked over to the table and gestured for Yechen to sit.
"I called you here today for two reasons. First, I've read your mission report. You did well."
Yechen remained silent, waiting for him to continue.
"After reviewing your report, headquarters has confirmed that the events you described are true. Taking the difficulty of this mission and your abilities into account, headquarters believes you already meet the qualifications of a Jonin.
"So, congratulations. The Main Camp