"Think about it," Hiruzen continued, his voice calm and reasonable. "If Konoha had truly conducted such experiments, the village would already have a large number of shinobi who can use Wood Release. But do we have any?"

"No."

"And that is the best evidence to dispel these rumors."

Hiruzen's calm demeanor and impeccable logic gradually swayed the invited guests.

"When you think about it, what the Hokage says makes sense."

"As expected, you can't trust rumors. It is always best to listen to the official account."

"That's right…"

Seeing that the situation was de-escalating, Hiruzen changed the subject, his gaze shifting to Shiro, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Shiro, I am truly surprised that you have mastered Wood Release. It is true what they say, the student has surpassed the master. You have a very bright future ahead of you."

"Hmph." Listening to Hiruzen's hypocritical praise, Shiro knew he was being led into a trap. "Cut the boring pleasantries," he said bluntly. "Just say what you want to say."

"Hehehe…" Hiruzen took a puff from his pipe. "There is no need to be so hostile. Although there have been some misunderstandings between Konoha and the Uchiha, and you did, in fact, betray the village, I can tell you in all honesty that I have never held these things against you."

"As Hokage, I must prioritize the greater good. As you are traitors, I would not be able to face the public without punishing you. Therefore, in the name of the Third Hokage, I make this promise to you, the Uchiha. As long as you return to Konoha and agree to one condition, I promise to forgive everything that has happened."

"I believe the head of the Uchiha clan is still Fugaku, correct? You can call him here, and we can discuss this like adults"

"Oh?" Shiro raised an eyebrow, a flicker of interest in his eyes. "Is that so? You won't hold the past against us?"

"That's right. I will let it all go."

"Then I must ask, what is this condition?"

"Hehe… naturally, you must share the method of mastering the power of Wood Release with the village."

Hearing this, Shiro sneered. "Of course. I knew it. Don't bother my clan head. I can make the decision on this condition myself. The answer is no."

"Alas…" Hiruzen sighed, putting down his pipe and shaking his head with a look of helpless resignation. "In that case, do not blame me for what must happen next."

"I did not want it to come to this, but there is no other way. Your Uchiha clan, as renegade ninja, have been running rampant outside the village. Konoha has always had a zero-tolerance policy for such traitors. If a great nation such as ours does not take action, how can we set an example for our neighboring nations and allies?"

"Today, I will deal with the three of you first, to show our village's resolve."

"Hahahaha, hahahahahahahaha!"

Before Shiro could respond, the Fourth Kazekage, seated next to Hiruzen, suddenly burst into laughter. Everyone was puzzled, their eyes all turning to the leader of the Sand.

"Lord Kazekage," Hiruzen asked, confused, "is something wrong?"

"Nothing, Lord Hokage. I just find your words about 'zero tolerance for renegade ninja' rather amusing."

"Oh? And what is so funny about that?"

"Tsk tsk tsk… As far as I know, you have a student named Orochimaru. He is also a renegade ninja, is he not? It is said that he has caused a great deal of trouble in many villages. He is quite prosperous now, I hear."

Hearing this, Hiruzen realized that the Kazekage was mocking him. Seeing the Hokage's face turn livid, his mouth opening and closing without a sound, the Kazekage leaned in and continued in a low voice, "I know you all too well, Lord Hokage. All of those sanctimonious words… you just want to keep the Uchiha in your grasp. You don't want them to join any other forces, isn't that right?"