After politely declining the Third's invitation, Zou Hyuga and Oto left the Hokage Building.
With so much awaiting reconstruction, the Third would be swamped with work for some time, leaving him no time to spare for the two ANBU who had served directly under the Fourth Hokage.
Zou also needed some time to sort out his feelings. The formulas recorded in the book had shaken him somewhat. Apart from his Byakugan, it was the most precious treasure Hyuga Yu had left him.
Another strange thing was that the clan had failed to find Hyuga Yu's body. With no other choice, they announced that the Main Family elder had tragically died fighting the Nine-Tails, while secretly continuing to send clan members to search for his Byakugan.
Turning to glance at Oto Uchiha, he saw worry and frustration in her expression, a stark contrast to her usual self.
Oto's expression certainly wasn't that of a maiden in love, so the only remaining explanation was concern for the Uchiha.
After the Nine-Tails' Rampage, the villagers had developed deep suspicions toward the Sharingan and the Uchiha. Although the Uchiha's subsequent actions had restored some trust, a deep rift had inevitably formed.
"Oto, was your answer to the Third earlier an attempt to change the Uchiha Clan's situation?"
Zou Hyuga's words struck straight at the heart of the matter. She nodded, but still seemed somewhat at a loss.
"Our clan members are too arrogant in their everyday dealings, so it's only natural that people distance themselves from us. But the Nine-Tails' Rampage can't be pinned on our clan. The Uchiha had no reason to control the Nine-Tails. This misunderstanding has to be cleared up."
As she spoke, Oto Uchiha's tone grew increasingly firm. She couldn't stand by and ignore what her clan was going through.