Hiruzen Sarutobi followed Chiyo into the living room.
He could not help but feel wistful. The last time he had come to the Uchiha Compound had been the day Chiyo became Clan Leader, and quite some time had passed since then.
The buildings of the Uchiha Compound remained solemn and imposing, yet it had become even more prosperous than when he had last visited.
Back then, as Hokage, he had still seemed like a "patriarch" before the Uchiha Clan. Now, however, he had to come calling in person, even vaguely feeling as though he had been left behind by the times.
Chiyo naturally saw through Hiruzen Sarutobi's mixed emotions.
But he said nothing more, merely raised a hand to gesture for the other man to sit, then spoke calmly.
"Lord Hokage has come in person. I presume there is an important matter to discuss. Why have you come today?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi fell silent for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the three people in the courtyard outside.
At last, he sighed, his tone heavy.
"Clan Leader Chiyo, this matter is of great importance. I hope you will consider it carefully."
Chiyo's expression did not change in the slightest, and his tone remained calm.
"Oh? For Lord Hokage to be so solemn, this must be no minor matter."
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded and slowly said,
"Lord Mito! Mito Uzumaki is advanced in years, and the Nine-Tails' seal has begun to weaken.
For the village's safety, we must transfer the Nine-Tails to a new host as soon as possible."
Chiyo's eyes narrowed. His fingers lightly tapped the table, his voice calm but carrying a hint of chill.
"So, Lord Hokage, who do you want to become the next Nine-Tails Jinchuriki?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked directly into Chiyo's eyes and said in a deep voice,