The main hall of the Land of Fire Daimyo's palace was grand and lavish.
Auspicious clouds and mythical beasts adorned the vaulted ceiling, the massive pillars bore intricate carvings, and the floor gleamed like a mirror.
Incense filled the air, yet it could not mask the oppressive weight of this seat of power.
The Daimyo sat in the place of honor, dressed in sumptuous court robes. He gently waved an exquisite folding fan that concealed the lower half of his face, leaving only his eyes visible.
Two beautiful maids stood beside him with lowered eyes and deferential expressions, lending him an even greater air of distinction.
Civil and military officials of the Land of Fire stood solemnly along both sides of the hall, arranged by rank.
Their gazes swept like searchlights onto the Uchiha party that had just entered.
Curiosity, wariness, disdain, scrutiny... all manner of emotions lay hidden beneath their respectful bearing.
When they saw that the group was led by a child who looked no older than six or seven, with almost impossibly delicate features, doubt and contempt flashed through many officials' eyes.
Faint murmurs drifted through the solemn hall.
"So that is the ignorant brat who made those outrageous claims?"
"The Uchiha are far too presumptuous, letting a mere child lead them..."
"Raze the Land of Fire? Heh, ignorance truly knows no fear."
"Have Konoha's ninja become this arrogant?"
Genya took it all in.
He walked steadily, followed by Shisui, Itachi, Elder Yashiro, and the poised Chinatsu and the others.
His calm gaze swept over the officials on either side before settling on the Daimyo. He inclined his head in courtesy, but did not kneel or prostrate himself.
The ninja system was relatively independent; showing respect to the Daimyo was enough.
That understanding had existed since the