In the Hokage Office, before the same unchanging desk.
After listening to the ANBU Squad's report, the Third's expression shifted uncertainly. He picked up his pipe, then set it down again.
The Masked Man's appearance after so many years of silence was definitely bad news. It meant the village would face another crisis. The sight of the Nine-Tails rampaging all those years ago was still deeply etched in his mind.
The only consolation was that Shisui had been among those the Masked Man attacked.
With his Mangekyo Sharingan, Shisui ranked among the village's strongest. He was already nearly a match for old men like them, and perhaps even stronger thanks to his youth.
But as Hokage, he could not simply accept one side of the story.
With a wave of his hand, the Third dispatched other ANBU to investigate the battle site.
Once that was done, the Third looked back at the ANBU Squad before him, his gaze settling on Zou Hyuga. Wrapped in layer upon layer of bandages, Zou looked seriously injured.
Narrowing his eyes slightly, the Third spoke again. "Zou, your injuries are serious. Stay in the village and recuperate for the next few days. You won't need to carry out any ANBU missions. Surviving an attack by someone as dangerous as the Masked Man must have been difficult for all of you."
"Thank you for your concern, Lord Hokage."
Zou Hyuga spoke quietly as he stood supported by the others. Although Obito had not hurt him, his broken bones were real. Getting time off because of them was something of a blessing in disguise.
At that thought, Zou Hyuga casually leaned back a little, only for Oto to give his lower back a push.
The Third noticed the little exchange between Zou and Oto. He smiled discreetly,