After watching Sasuke head off to the Ninja Academy, Zongyan turned and hurried toward the Security Force.
Once he had signed in, he took Uchiha Takuma and the other two out for their daily assignment-patrolling South Street.
The four radiated an overbearing presence, and everywhere they went fell as silent as ever.
Time passed slowly, and the sun climbed higher until lunchtime approached.
Hurried footsteps rang out from an alley behind them, breaking the surrounding silence.
A clansman dressed in Uchiha clan attire rushed over, his tone urgent yet respectful.
"Young Master Zongyan, someone has arrived at your home and asked you to return immediately. They have something important to discuss with you!"
Zongyan stopped, a question rising in his mind.
Who knew I was on duty here yet still sent someone to summon me so urgently?
Countless thoughts raced through his mind in that brief instant.
Then, suddenly.
A flash of lightning seemed to streak through his mind, and his eyes lit up.
He immediately turned and instructed Uchiha Takuma and the other two beside him.
"Something has come up at home. I'm heading back right away. The three of you will be responsible for patrolling this area."
Takuma and the other two nodded in acknowledgment.
"Yes, Captain!"
Having given his instructions, Zongyan abruptly accelerated and raced toward the Uchiha Clan Compound.
The instant Zongyan left, a figure flashed through the shadows nearby and departed into the distance.
After racing all the way back, Zongyan reached his residence in moments.
He had barely stepped through the courtyard gate when he saw a ninja clad entirely in close-fitting black clothes.
"Toru, you sent someone to summon me so urgently. Have you discovered something?"
Zongyan strode up to Uchiha Toru, unable to conceal the excitement in his voice.
Uchiha Toru bowed