That afternoon, at half past two.
Chiyo stood outside the Hokage's Office.
He knocked lightly on the door, and Hiruzen Sarutobi's deep voice came from within.
"Come in."
Pushing open the door, Chiyo saw Hiruzen Sarutobi standing before the window with his back to him. Smoke slowly rose from his pipe, curling around him.
The atmosphere in the room was somewhat heavy.
"Lord Hokage."
Chiyo gave a slight nod.
Hiruzen Sarutobi turned around, his face carrying traces of exhaustion and complicated emotions.
He pointed to the chair across from him.
"Sit, Chiyo."
Chiyo sat down and looked calmly at Hiruzen Sarutobi, waiting for him to speak.
"Lady Tsunade... should have already told you about Lord Mito."
Hiruzen Sarutobi's voice was somewhat hoarse, and a flash of sorrow crossed his eyes.
"She has given too much to the village over these years, but now..."
Chiyo nodded.
"Lady Tsunade did mention Lord Mito's condition."
Hiruzen Sarutobi took a deep breath and slowly said,
"Chiyo, I called you here because I hope you can use the Sharingan's power to temporarily suppress the Nine-Tails' Chakra.
So that Lord Mito can rest for a while longer, buying some time for the new Nine-Tails Jinchuriki."
His tone was earnest, carrying even a hint of pleading.
Chiyo raised an eyebrow slightly. This was the first time he had seen Hiruzen Sarutobi lower himself like this.
As for how much was real and how much was false, that was impossible to know.
As an old politician of Konoha, Chiyo was more inclined to believe there was at least some sincerity in it.
He did not dare hope for more than that.
"Lord Hokage, I understand what you mean."
Chiyo's voice was calm.
"However, the Nine-Tails' power is no trivial matter. I can only do my best."
Hiruzen Sarutobi