While Xuandou was working hard for the Uchiha population at Desire Hot Springs...
A high-level meeting was being held in the Hokage's Office.
Konoha's core decision-makers sat around a rectangular conference table.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, sat at the head, a pipe between his lips, his expression obscured by swirling smoke.
The two advisers, Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu, sat on either side of him.
Danzo and Aburame Torune sat a little farther away.
The heads of the major clans, including Shikaku Nara, Inoichi Yamanaka, and Akimichi Chōza, were also present.
Only the Uchiha seat was empty.
Clearly, they had been excluded from this meeting.
As the meeting began, Mitokado Homura spoke first.
He adjusted his glasses, his expression solemn.
"The number of high-rank mission requests Konoha receives has dropped severely. I'm sure you all know why."
"This is all because of the Uchiha!"
"Ever since the Uchiha established that Mission Hall, they've taken on so many high-rank commissions."
"I don't understand!"
"Why are the once-arrogant Uchiha now so highly regarded by so many clients?"
Shikaku Nara looked at the data report in his hands and spoke slowly.
"The Uchiha have formidable combat strength. That's a fact."
"Whenever enemies appear, they can always deal with them swiftly."
"Over time, they've naturally built a reputation. When bandits, wandering warriors, and rogue ninja see that an escort mission is being handled by the Uchiha, they all choose to steer clear."
He raised his head.
"As a result, important A-rank and even S-rank escort missions naturally end up in Uchiha hands."
"They aren't just taking commissions from Konoha. Missions from the other great nations have also begun flowing to them."
"I've heard that the Uchiha are now refusing commissions below B-rank, citing a shortage of manpower."
At this, Utatane Koharu's expression darkened,