The Road to Six Paths

The next morning.

Pop~.

Jueming got up and left.

A long time passed... a very long time...

Only then did faint rustling sounds come from the room.

Early that morning, Jueming sent Mikoto Uchiha back to her home.

Mikoto Uchiha, who had not returned all day, staggered to her feet, bracing herself against the wall as she moved forward step by trembling step.

With great difficulty, she finally made it into the bathroom.

Soon, the sound of running water came from within.

The shower masked her sobs.

Mikoto Uchiha wept inside, pouring out the sorrow and pain in her heart.

She felt she had let down her husband and child.

But...

In order to get her husband out, rather than let him grow old and die in there.

She could only choose this path.

And with her husband's pride, he would never accept being imprisoned for the rest of his life. He would surely take his own life.

So...

To save her husband.

Mikoto Uchiha resolutely embarked on this road of no return.

After she had finished bathing.

She glanced at herself in the mirror, her face pale and her eyes red-rimmed.

Mikoto Uchiha stepped out of the bathroom.

She returned to the bedroom.

Took out a brand-new kimono.

Arranged her hair.

Applied a light touch of makeup.

Before long, the reflection in the mirror was once again that of a dignified, well-bred beautiful woman.

Then.

Mikoto Uchiha rose, crossed the living room, and headed toward the far end.

Knock, knock, knock.

Mikoto Uchiha knocked on the door and said in a hoarse voice, "Itachi... wash up, then come with me to bring your father home..."

A sound came from the previously silent room.

Then.

Her son, dressed in pajamas, opened the door, revealing his small figure.

Konoha Prison.