The Third Hokage was unusually not wearing his Hokage robes, nor his old-fashioned green battle armor. Instead, he wore a formal black montsuki, his expression solemn.
Shimura Danzō, Mitokado Homura, Koharu Utatane, and Torifu Akimichi stood on either side of the Third Hokage.
"Call Orochimaru and Shota-senpai's group in as well. Let them bid Mito farewell."
The Third Hokage spoke.
"I'll call them."
Koharu Utatane nodded slightly and pushed open the doors.
Hearing the movement, the members of the Hokage faction in the courtyard all turned their heads.
"The ceremony is about to begin. Come in, everyone, and bid Mito one last farewell."
The group immediately formed a line of their own accord and entered the hall. They saw the solemn Konoha higher-ups, as well as Mito Uzumaki lying on the bed, with Tsunade and Kushina weeping beside it.
"Alright, stop crying. There are so many people watching."
Mito Uzumaki patted Kushina's forearm, then glanced at Tsunade.
Having lived with Mito for many years, Tsunade immediately understood. She took Kushina by the hand and led her aside.
Only then did Mito Uzumaki turn her head, her gentle gaze settling upon the visitors.
"Shota, May, you've both come."
"Mito, we came to see you."
Leaning on his cane, Shota Senju spoke in a trembling voice.
"Alright, don't be sad. A bunch of shameless old fools—crying at your age. What is there to cry about?"
Mito Uzumaki wore a smile. Though she was at the end of her life, she carried an open-mindedness that transcended life and death.
Just like her husband.
"I am very happy, because I can finally go see Hashirama. I'll tell him that much of his dream has already come true. The village has grown strong and prosperous. Tobirama and Monkey have governed it with great care, and