The clan grounds were different from how they had been during the Konoha Defense War. Some Uchiha clansmen had already returned, and the crowds had grown. After the Third Hokage announced the end of the Third Shinobi World War, the atmosphere had become much livelier, with cheerful voices and laughter rising from the surroundings now and then.
Mikoto was swept up in the atmosphere, a smile constantly on her face. Ever since the Third Shinobi World War began, she had spent almost every day on edge, afraid that terrible news might suddenly arrive. Now that the war was over, she could finally lift that heavy weight from her heart.
After they entered the clan grounds, Mikoto enthusiastically introduced Anyo to every place and shared amusing stories that had happened there. It was clear that she loved this place and sincerely hoped Anyo could become part of it.
Anyo understood perfectly. He kept a smile on his face and occasionally offered a few words in response.
When Mikoto reached her doorstep, Anyo said goodbye. "Mikoto, now that you're home, I'll be going."
Mikoto tried to persuade him to stay. "Won't you come in and see Itachi? He mentions you often and says he wants you to check his swordsmanship."
"Another day."
"Oh, right," Mikoto said in realization. "You haven't fully recovered yet. Make sure you get plenty of rest."
Feeling the deep concern in her words, Anyo replied with a faint smile, "All right, I will."
Having successfully entered the clan grounds, Anyo had already located Naka Shrine with the Soul Division Technique. After saying goodbye, he became a blur and vanished.
Naka Shrine was the Uchiha Clan's ancestral shrine, and the stone tablet inside had been passed down through the generations. There had once been a famous river here, the