After wrestling with his thoughts, Kakashi headed toward the training ground. His own strength was what gave him the confidence to face the unknown. He also needed to review what he had gained from the battle in Amegakure; most of his ninjutsu had proved utterly ineffective against large summoning beasts.
Guy followed close behind. For him, intense training had already become part of every aspect of his life.
Yamato, meanwhile, was stopped by a grinning Zou Hyuga. After Zou whispered a few words in his ear, his expression soured slightly. Zou actually wanted him to sell his Wood Release Kekkei Genkai services to rebuild Konoha's streets.
Although that would help improve his control to some extent, he still felt as though he would be working for free.
Once the outsiders had all left, the atmosphere among the group grew rather delicate. Oto and Shisui both looked at Zou Hyuga, seemingly waiting for an explanation.
Danzo's strange behavior definitely had something to do with the man standing before them.
Their stares left Zou Hyuga somewhat embarrassed. Spreading his hands, he said, "Danzo's actions had nothing to do with me. Maybe he found his conscience and decided to take the Third down with him."
Oto rolled her eyes, her smile gradually turning comical as the corners of her mouth curled into a knowing smirk.
"Why does no one ever believe me when I tell the truth?"
Zou Hyuga sighed softly, looking helpless as he lamented how fragile trust between people could be.
He would never willingly give up a tool as useful as Danzo.
For one thing, Danzo could take the blame. For another, he could draw the attention of both the Akatsuki and the village, buying Zou enough time for his plans.
If the higher-ups had not been keeping such a