Aburame Shibi resolutely and firmly cast his vote in support of the rebels. He knew many people were watching him, and he understood that many were puzzled by his choice. Yet he paid no attention to anyone. He had no obligation to explain himself. After declaring his support for the impeachment of Uchiha Sōken, he returned to his stone-like, soundless silence.
Just—
Though the tree wished for stillness, the wind would not cease.
"Aburame Clan Head, you... do you know that not long ago, Aburame Ryoma was killed by Uchiha Sōken?" Mitokado Homura could not understand why Aburame Shibi had made such an irrational choice. This taciturn clan had always been regarded by him as a pillar of their faction.
However, The Aburame Clan had betrayed their trust.
"I know."
Aburame Shibi replied flatly.
"You know? And you still..."
"Elder Mitokado, the Aburame Clan is no one's slave. I only hope that the children of our clan can freely choose their futures once they grow up, instead of being leashed like dogs with cursed seals from childhood. From the moment Ryoma was taken to Root, I already considered him dead."
Even through the dark glasses, Mitokado Homura could sense that icy, piercing gaze.
That utterly distant tone also showed just how wrong their understanding of the Aburame Clan had been in the past.
Their taciturn nature was not because they were cold and heartless. They simply were not good with words. The love they held for their family had never faded in the slightest. Watching their brothers and children be taken away by Danzo, never to be seen again—it was a pain they still could not forget!
Standing beside Aburame Shibi was a man completely shrouded in a black trench coat.
He was Aburame Shikuroo.
A rare Poison Insect Master