Mikoto, who had been chatting, froze for a second, then smiled at the women. "Excuse me for a moment."
Behind the main hall, Mikoto spotted Anyo's helpless expression at once. Knowing she was in the wrong, she spoke first. "You promised me you would revive the clan. No going back on your word."
Anyo put on a smile and took two steps forward. "Mikoto, close your eyes. I have something for you."
"What is it?" Mikoto was a little curious. In all her years, this was the first time Anyo had offered her a gift.
Mikoto closed her eyes as asked and felt something warm and smooth as jade on her forehead. Before she could savor the sensation, she heard Anyo say, "Done."
"That was quick. Is it an accessory?" Mikoto touched her forehead.
Anyo took out a mirror and waved it.
A crescent-shaped mark had appeared on Mikoto's forehead, lending her delicate features a hint of mystery and a distinct, ethereal quality.
"It's beautiful."
Ever since going to Takigakure, Mikoto had never looked in a mirror. She knew very well that she was growing older, and physical and mental exhaustion had left her looking terribly aged. She had never expected to see a touch of girlishness in herself now. For a moment, she felt as though she had returned to her childhood.
Seeing her mood improve, Anyo took the opportunity to say, "Sasuke... he left the village."
"Sasuke woke up?" Mikoto said happily. "I'm glad he's awake. But honestly, what was Konoha thinking, sending him on a mission when he's only just recovered?"
"Uh, it wasn't a mission." Anyo was at something of a loss for how to explain.
Mikoto finally realized something was wrong, and her expression grew anxious. "If it wasn't a mission, why did he leave