The Anbu ninja had never seen the Third Hokage like this and froze for a moment, but only a moment. Their professional training let them react quickly, and they left the Hokage Building with a Body Flicker Technique.
Not just the Anbu ninja-even Utatane Koharu had never seen the Third Hokage like this. Concern appeared on her face.
"What happened? What did Hizashi do?"
"Yan guessed the plan and told Hizashi. After restraining Yan and Haruka, Hizashi ran back to the village alone. Hiashi may already have received the news."
Just as the Third Hokage had suspected, he had barely finished speaking when Hyuga Hiashi appeared in the office, his face grim.
"Third Hokage, I want Hyūga Shinkō withdrawn from the battlefield."
The Third Hokage closed his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling powerless. He no longer knew what to do.
Seeing his helplessness, Utatane Koharu stalled for time.
"Hiashi, why withdraw Shinkō from the battlefield out of nowhere?"
"The Hyuga Clan is also preparing to honor our ancestors. Every member of the Main Family must attend. I hope you will grant this request, Third Hokage."
"There is no need to rush. Make your preparations first. I will personally write to Danzo in three months."
Hyuga Hiashi's expression visibly changed, veins standing out clearly on his forehead.
"Lady Koharu, just because I say nothing does not mean I know nothing. We cannot afford to lose the Byakugan. That is the Hyuga Clan's bottom line."
Hearing this, the Third Hokage understood that there was no point in playing dumb any longer.
"Hiashi, nothing will happen. Kakashi has already gone, and Sunagakure will act at the critical moment as well. You must trust the village."
"It was precisely because I trusted the village too much that things came to this.
"Third