The Village Chief had almost knelt before him, but Uchiha Hikaru pulled him up and told him there was no need for that.
First of all, he was not the final decision-maker. He could only put in a recommendation and hopefully say a few good words in front of the princes.
Although the Second Prince beside him was also a member of the Royal Family, he had no decision-making power either. At this moment, he had not even gained the First Prince's trust.
The most important person had yet to arrive. Uchiha Hikaru needed the First Prince's approval before he could truly come back and give these people an answer.
"I understand, Uchiha Hikaru. But we're already immensely grateful that you're willing to help me." The Village Chief now wanted to give Uchiha Hikaru every possible benefit without conditions, even if they could not accomplish this matter.
Even though he did not know what the First Prince was thinking, Uchiha Hikaru still felt guilty. It was as if the First Prince had become a different person—more melancholic and sentimental.
"I'll do my best, Village Chief. I can't give you a definite answer right now, but I'll certainly give it everything I've got." Uchiha Hikaru offered a few comforting words, hoping the Village Chief would stop acting this way.
Slowly, the Village Chief rose and told Uchiha Hikaru that he could not see them off, because the divine beasts still needed to be watched over and strengthened.
Only when those powers existed at a truly balanced point could they unleash their greatest vitality. Yet no one could find that point now.
Perhaps some things simply could not be found, or perhaps they were never meant to last forever. That was part of this world's wonder, the source of its immense charm.