Obito was suddenly summoned by his clan head. When he arrived at Fugaku's home, he sat somewhat stiffly in the living room.
Clan Head Fugaku was still in his study, so Mikoto poured him a cup of water first.
"Thank you, Lady Mikoto." Obito accepted it with both hands, deeply respectful.
Mikoto smiled gently. "Don't be so tense. Make yourself at home."
She had always treated the younger members of her clan this way. Obito merely scratched his head awkwardly and gave a foolish grin.
He mostly felt awe and respect toward Fugaku, but he felt much closer to Mikoto. In his eyes, the gentle and beautiful Lady Mikoto was the model of a virtuous wife and loving mother. He also longed to build a family like the clan head's.
A virtuous wife, a sensible son, and himself as the future Hokage—that would be the most wonderful life...
Before long, Fugaku called Obito into the study. Obito immediately set down his teacup and entered.
"How is your Wood Release training going?" Fugaku suddenly asked after his progress.
Obito froze for a moment before slowly answering, "It's going alright... I can successfully perform most of the techniques now."
He could only perform them successfully, though. He still needed long-term training before he could use them in actual combat.
Fugaku saw through the situation at a glance and said, "Don't be impatient. Building a solid foundation is extremely important."
Obito merely lowered his head and muttered, "Oh."
Fugaku said, "I understand that Wood Release is difficult to train in. After all, there isn't anyone in the village who can teach you. You have to explore it all by yourself. I simply believe this is an opportunity for you, and I hope you can seize it properly."
"..." Obito kept his head lowered