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Fumori Masaki could only visit the Senju clan occasionally due to his busy schedule with Anbu's work. After submitting a crucial proposal, he was tasked with increasing surveillance on other countries and the composition of the troops in enemy Shinobi villages.
Recently, Fumori Masaki received a new assignment. He was informed that his team would be sent to the northern frontier to gather intelligence. If there was an incident on the border, they were to report immediately so that the village could respond promptly.
Despite Konoha Ninja Village's growing military strength, the daimyo samurai army was still active and stationed along the border. The Ninja Village couldn't deploy its forces across the vast Land of Fire territory to maintain border peace. Therefore, the samurai army remained an essential component of border security.
Fumori Masaki anticipated a cold reception from the northern frontier army, given their dislike of ninjas. Nonetheless, he was prepared to carry out his duties.
His team would be reorganized soon. Uchiha Kagami was being reassigned, and Akimichi Torifu would be joining Masaki for the northern frontier mission.
Masaki was somewhat surprised by this change. He didn't know the reasons behind Kagami's reassignment but chose not to question it.
"It's a shame that I won't be accompanying you," Uchiha Kagami said when he visited Masaki's home to deliver the official notice.
"Since it's an order, there's nothing to be done. But if you're being reassigned, there must be other tasks for you, right?" Masaki asked.
"Yes, indeed," Kagami replied, his expression turning serious. "Hashirama-sama has informed me that in the event of a potential war, the Uchiha family will be responsible for the village's police department. He hopes I can reorganize the family's internal structure."
The Uchiha family was tasked with overseeing police department, a duty which would become more critical in times of war. In Konoha, where civilian ninjas had not yet formed a significant force, the military might of the village was dominated by family elites, with the Senju family at the forefront. Once the main forces left, Konoha's defense would rely heavily on the Uchiha family.
Given the historical context of Uchiha Madara's betrayal, there was a need to ensure that the Uchiha family remained loyal. Kagami's task was to ensure that the family would not betray the village.
Masaki understood the necessity of this task and said with a reassuring smile, "I don't think you need to worry too much. The Uchiha family will not betray us. I believe that most of them share your views, and only a minority might have ill intentions. As long as others keep an eye on them, it should be manageable."
Kagami nodded. "I hope the family understands their role, but there are still some dissenting voices. After Madara's actions, the village didn't hold any grudges and entrusted the security department to the Uchiha family. However, some believe the family should have more power."
At this point, Kagami, who was usually calm, slammed his hand on the table in frustration. It was clear that this issue angered him deeply.
Masaki was aware of the Uchiha family's occasional issues but was surprised that even with the power given to them, there were still dissenters. After all, in Konoha, no other department was controlled solely by one family.
The power of the Uchiha family had grown significantly, overseeing security and interrogations. This concentration of power necessitated checks and balances, which were provided by Anbu.
"Is there really such a person?" Masaki asked.
"Yes," Kagami replied. "His name is Uchiha Setsuna, and he is a prominent figure among the family's elders."
Masaki recalled Uchiha Setsuna's name from the manga, recognizing him as someone who claimed to uphold Madara's will. This made Setsuna a figure of significant concern.
"That definitely needs to be addressed," Masaki said. "However, given the situation, Setsuna is likely a minority. He shouldn't be able to cause too much trouble. As long as you manage the family's general outlook, it should be fine."
"Yes, although the police department was initially effective, there seem to be issues now that I can't pinpoint exactly," Kagami admitted.
"Do the police department members seem a bit arrogant?"
"Some do, but..." Kagami trailed off, as it was normal for Uchiha family members to be proud, though the current situation was more concerning.
"Kagami, I believe in a principle: absolute power corrupts absolutely," Masaki said. "The police department has significant power, and while it may not seem problematic now, it could lead to corruption in the future. If even the law enforcement agencies do not uphold justice, who will trust them?"
Kagami was taken aback. Masaki's observation about potential future issues with the police department was eye-opening. He asked, "Masaki, do you have any suggestions to prevent this from happening?"
"To prevent such issues, first, establish a strict system of rules to prevent abuse of power. Anyone who violates these rules should be severely punished," Fumori Masaki advised. "Second, instill a strong sense of honor in the members of the security team, emphasizing their responsibility to enforce the law impartially. Regular oversight and management are also essential to ensure they don't stray."
"Thank you. This is very helpful," Kagami said, impressed. "I now have a direction for reorganizing the family. I'll think about it further."
"I'm here to help," Masaki replied with a smile.
After discussing the issue, Kagami left to consider the necessary reforms within the security team.
The following day, just before Masaki's team was set to leave for the northern frontier, a ninja eagle arrived with urgent news from the frontier army:
—Kumo Ninja is invading aggressively. Immediate support required!—
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