Cloud Village · The Second Hokage's Final Appointment

Diejian woke up a little before sunrise.

To avoid waking Tsunade and Nawaki, who were snoring healthily, he quietly slipped out of the house.

He slung a slightly oversized bag over his shoulder and strode down the road with a swagger.

Under the dim, pre-dawn sky, he took a deep breath of the cool air.

The morning air filled his lungs, cooling his entire body.

Walking along the familiar path toward the gates, Diejian's thoughts drifted to his newly tailored coat.

It was a purple coat gifted to him by his parents and his teacher, Tobirama, to celebrate his promotion to Jonin—on the back, it bore the two characters representing his honor: "Senju."

When Diejian reached his destination, the "Gate of A," the person he was waiting for had not yet arrived.

Only the gate guards on duty were watching over the dimly lit road.

Noticing Diejian's presence, the guard gave an exaggerated salute.

Diejian mimicked the gesture in return.

"Oh, if it isn't the young master. It's been a long time."

"Long time no see, uncle."

"Indeed. You've grown into such a dashing figure. You look exactly like the late Hokage."

This man was the very same guard who had seen Diejian off on the day he had fought his death match against Kakuzu.

He had served as a gate guard for many years, welcoming those who returned to the village and bidding farewell to those who left.

He had seen it all—those who left and never returned, and those who were brought back cold and lifeless.

Seeing the once-mischievous brat grow into such an outstanding man, the guard smiled at Diejian, who was draped in his "Senju coat."

Though he had heard rumors that Diejian had recently destroyed a training ground and caused quite a stir in the village, he supposed that was just a sign of his vitality.

Diejian chatted with the guard for a moment before a man appeared.

His name was Sarutobi Hiruzen.

"Oh, Diejian. You seem to be the first one here."

"Big Brother Monkey, good morning—what happened to your beard?"

"Ah, well, Biwako insisted that if I'm going as an escort, I need to look formal, so she forced me to..."

"Ah, so it was Big Sister."

Seeing Hiruzen's figure, Diejian quickly ended his conversation with the guard.

The beard he usually kept was shaved clean, and with a touch of makeup around his eyes, he looked much younger than usual.

Hiruzen seemed to have a bit of a baby face.

Biwako making Hiruzen shave his beard was likely for reasons beyond what he had just mentioned.

Although Diejian and Sakumo had praised Hiruzen's beard as "having character," there had been complaints from the women's circle about it being "sloppy" or "a waste of his looks."

Having inherited his father's status, Hiruzen was now one of the highest-ranking officials in the village.

Perhaps he had wanted to start with his appearance, growing a beard to project the dignity befitting his position.

But judging by his current state, his fiancée, Biwako, clearly shared the opinion of the other women.

"Oh, Diejian. Is that the coat Lord Tobirama bestowed upon you?"

Seeing Diejian in the coat, Hiruzen let out a sigh of admiration.

He saw the shadow of the late Hokage, Senju Hashirama, in him, and he held that image in high regard.

Moreover, Hiruzen had known Diejian since he was a child running around the Hokage's residence.

He was like a younger brother with a significant age gap.

Seeing this troublesome junior disciple, whom he had watched grow up since childhood, turn into such an impressive man stirred the tear ducts of the sentimental and easily moved Hiruzen.

"Wuu... Lord Hashirama, are you watching?"

"Hey, Big Brother Monkey. How is it? Does it fit? I really love these 'Senju' characters."

Hiruzen pressed his fingers to the corners of his eyes, speaking toward the Hokage Rock.

But Diejian spun around on the spot like he was dancing, turning his back to him and pointing his thumbs at the two characters.

Diejian's bouncy, energetic demeanor was enough to ruin Hiruzen's moment of sentimentality.

He moved his hand away from his eyes and scratched his head in frustration.

His appearance had matured, but his inner self didn't seem to have changed much.

Still, seeing his junior disciple remain unchanged in that way, Hiruzen couldn't help but smile.

That said, Hiruzen narrowed his eyes.

"I heard you caused trouble again?"

"Living a fun and happy life—that is my ninja way."

"Good grief, you really are incorrigible. I never expected to hear the words 'Teacher Sarutobi is a good man' come out of Orochimaru's mouth."

Orochimaru's words seemed to make him quite happy.

Hiruzen wore a bright, almost beatific smile that made Diejian feel a bit dazzled.

"Heh—Orochimaru said that? He seems quite fond of you, Big Brother. It seems that guy has a cute side after all."

"Indeed, it is a true blessing for a master."

"If that's the case, then you and Orochimaru must be a perfect match."

Diejian felt a fire burning within him, a hope that he, too, could one day be the kind of teacher people spoke of in such a way.

At the very least, while Diejian respected Tobirama, he felt he could never bring himself to say, "It has to be Tobirama."

His mood grew somewhat complicated.

"Sarutobi and Diejian... are you two the only ones here yet?"

"Danzō."

"Good morning, Danzō-san."

The ninja who appeared before them was named Shimura Danzō.

With a cross-shaped scar on his chin, he was one of the elite confidants of the Second Hokage, having trained under Tobirama alongside Hiruzen.

His strength was on par with Sarutobi Hiruzen, who stood at the pinnacle of Konoha's combat power.

To Diejian's greeting, Danzō merely gave a cold "Oh" before leaning against the nearby wall and closing his eyes to rest.

Shimura Danzō and Sarutobi Hiruzen were childhood friends.

Diejian had also noticed that Danzō seemed to harbor a fierce sense of rivalry toward Hiruzen.

Diejian's own words and actions toward Hiruzen always seemed quite "casual," but that was merely the "spoiled" behavior born from his understanding of Hiruzen's broad-minded nature; in essence, he was very close to him.

Was it for this reason, or was he just like this with everyone? Danzō didn't seem to want to deal with Diejian.

But it wasn't as if he hated him, either.

Diejian didn't dislike Danzō, either.

He simply felt the man was difficult to get along with and preferred not to get too involved.

Into this atmosphere, which couldn't be called hostile but certainly wasn't friendly, another ninja joined them.

It was a beautiful young woman named Utatane Koharu.

Koharu was the only woman among the ninjas promoted to be Tobirama's confidants.

Though she was a woman, she possessed strength that rivaled any man; she was a kunoichi who, contrary to her competitive aura, was actually quite quiet on the inside.

Gentle and steady, she was a type of woman Diejian didn't have around him.

Through his interactions with Koharu, Diejian was once again forced to recognize the high "proportion of strong-willed personalities" among the women in his circle.

Tsunade, Ina, Juri—the only quiet woman was his grandmother, Mito Uzumaki, who harbored a beast within her. Such an environment couldn't help but make one think.

One by one, more presences began to gather.

Torifu Akimichi, Kagami Uchiha—these were heroes whose names were renowned even within Konoha.

Compared to them, Diejian was still just a junior.

Afraid to forget his manners, he took a step back to face his seniors.

"Seniors, it would be my honor if you could offer me your guidance."

They were all illustrious figures.

Every one of them was an elite personally selected by the Second Hokage, Tobirama.

They were the young inheritors of the Will of Fire, permitted to stand by Tobirama's side to witness the coming new era and tasked with guiding the next generation.

Diejian was merely listed at the very end.

The emergency promotion to Jonin a few days ago had been in preparation for this very role.

"That's strange, Hiruzen. This isn't Diejian, is it?"

"Indeed, Kagami. I was just thinking the same thing."

Perhaps startled by Diejian's respectful attitude, Hiruzen and Kagami looked at him as if he were some rare curiosity.

Compared to how Diejian usually acted toward Kagami and Hiruzen, this was far too formal.

It wasn't that there was anything wrong with it, but they couldn't help but complain, "Show us some respect too!"

Though they didn't truly mean it, they had never once received the kind of deference Diejian showed to Koharu and Torifu.

"What's the matter, Hiruzen? Isn't this a good thing?"

"Please, stop picking on me, Teacher, Big Brother Sarutobi."

Diejian looked troubled, as if he wanted to hide behind Koharu.

This little brat... Hiruzen's fist trembled.

"I'm here, I'm here! Thank goodness, it looks like I made it in time!"

"Ina, what's the matter? It's so early in the morning."

Below the noisy and cheerful group, a woman came running over.

She wore bangs that swayed with her short-cropped blonde hair; her name was Yamanaka Ina.

Unlike Diejian, who had become a Jonin and was counted among the "elite," she remained in the village alongside Sakumo, who was recuperating.

It was Tobirama's will to have Sakumo and Ina serve as symbols of the village, while Diejian became a pillar in the political sphere.

"I haven't seen you around lately, have I?"

"Yeah, that's true."

"You're leaving the village for a while again this time, right? So I thought I'd at least come to see you off."

"Oh—I see. Thanks. I'm really happy you did."

Blinking at the unexpected appearance, Diejian welcomed Ina nonetheless.

Seeing Diejian's expression soften, Hiruzen stared at him with a mischievous grin.

Feeling that wicked gaze, Diejian glared back at Hiruzen as a warning.

But perhaps as payback for past grievances, Hiruzen simply shrugged comically.

It was Utatane Koharu who proved to be the clever one.

Seeming to sense something from the expression on Ina's face as she saw Diejian off, she grabbed Hiruzen by the ear and dragged him over toward Danzo.

The heart of a woman seeing a man off to war—a firm strategy that seemed to declare that no one was allowed to interfere.

Perhaps intimidated by Koharu's actions, the other adults followed suit and left one by one.

As she departed, Koharu winked at Ina.

Ina gave Koharu a slight nod of acknowledgment before turning to face Diejian.

"Did you bring your handkerchief?"

"I did. I have the hemostatic pills, too."

"I see... What about your ninja tools? Military Ration Pills, scrolls, and the like?"

"I brought some. But this trip is just to forge an alliance with Kumogakure. There shouldn't be any fighting."

"You, you can't be so careless. That's exactly why you still haven't received the Menkyo Kaiden from the Hokage. As a ninja, you can never let your guard down."

"W-well, that may be, but..."

"Shut up. Your reputation is the Hokage's reputation. And by extension, it concerns the reputation of Konohagakure. Now that you're a Jonin, you can't forget these things."

"T-that's true, but..."

"No backtalk! You'd better apologize properly to Sakumo about what happened at the training ground when you get back, you hear? Leave the matter with Juri to me. I've spoken with Kagami once already, so I think it should be fine. Do you understand?"

"Yes."

As Diejian cowered, Ina continued to lecture him relentlessly.

She was the one who had become a Jonin before Diejian, following right after Sakumo.

Compared to Sakumo, who was treated as a banner, and Diejian, who was about to become the symbol of his "clan," she seemed to possess a much keener sense of what it meant to be a Jonin.

"And don't be rude to the Raikage when you're with Kumogakure. I think you'll be fine on that front, though. Also, this outfit..."

"Ah, this is, it's new—"

"Your collar is crooked, fix it."

"Yes."

With Ina adjusting his collar, Diejian could only hang his head and let her have her way.

He had originally intended to show off his new clothes.

"Hey, Diejian, this..."

"Hm? What is this?"

"W-wait! Don't shake it!"

Ina let go of Diejian's collar and handed him a slightly large pouch tied at the waist.

It had a moderate, heavy weight to it.

The warmth of it transferred to his hand.

Diejian took it with a puzzled expression and gave it a gentle shake.

Ina seemed flustered by Diejian's actions and stopped him.

"I brought you a bento. I thought... I hoped you might be able to eat it."

A faint blush spread across the cheeks of the downcast Ina.

Watching Ina act so uncharacteristically shy, Diejian felt a touch of embarrassment himself.

He offered his thanks and tied the small bag containing his bento around his waist.

The bag was already stuffed with the change of clothes and other necessities for his journey, so he was truly grateful for her thoughtfulness.

At Diejian's thanks, Ina smiled happily.

"If you leave any leftovers, I won't forgive you," she added with a touch of playful sharpness to hide her shyness.

But immediately after, Ina's expression turned somewhat lonely.

They had only just managed to meet, yet now they would be apart for a long time again.

It was, after all, painful.

Once the thought took hold, it wouldn't stop—watching Ina suddenly wilt and lower her head, Diejian gently touched her cheek with his palm.

He tenderly brushed aside the hair covering her eyes, peering into her gaze as her long lashes trembled.

The corners of Diejian's eyes drooped with gentleness.

"Ina, thank you for everything up until now. I know I've made you wait a long time, but I've been thinking—once I become a Jonin—yes, that's what I've been thinking."

"Di, Diejian..."

"If this alliance can be forged, Grandfather's long-cherished wish will finally be fulfilled. If that happens—"

"--Time is up. Let's go."

Diejian's words came to an abrupt halt.

Dry footsteps echoed through the quiet street, accompanied by the metallic sound of armor drawing near.

As Ina and Diejian stood frozen in surprise, a man strode past them—on the back of his swaying coat were the characters for "Second Hokage."

The long-cherished wish between the First Hokage Senju Hashirama and the First Raikage A, the alliance between Konoha and Kumogakure, was finally to be concluded.

Tobirama was heading to Kumogakure for this final summit.

He had instructed Diejian, who had just become a Jonin, to accompany him as a new aide, joining Hiruzen and the others for the talks.

Diejian's task was to "carry the bags" for Tobirama, but its true essence was "learning."

To witness the diplomatic prowess of the Second Hokage Tobirama firsthand, and to observe the "Kage" of other villages—broadening his horizons was his true duty.

This was nothing less than allowing him to experience a turning point in the era.

"Se, Second Hokage-sama..."

"Hm...? What is it?"

Watching Hiruzen's bitter smile, Tobirama tilted his head in genuine confusion.

Diejian and Ina's shoulders slumped instantly.

Koharu and Kagami smiled helplessly.

Torifu and Homura shrugged, while Danzo let out a huff.

"Well then, I'm off."

In any case, it was impossible to continue the conversation in this atmosphere.

He would talk about "that matter" again once this expedition was over and he returned to the village, Diejian thought with an apologetic smile.

But Ina simply nodded happily, accepting it.

Diejian turned his back to Ina and walked toward his companions waiting outside the gate.

His coat swayed in the wind.

"Ah, Diejian! That outfit, it looks very cool!!"

Ina's words were brimming with emotion.

Diejian waved his hand behind his back in response.

★

"Lord Hokage. Welcome. To finally achieve the wish held since the time of the Firsts is truly moving."

"Indeed, Lord Raikage. Konoha is also sincerely pleased with this alliance."

Kumogakure, Raikage Mansion.

It was a massive, egg-shaped structure standing amidst rugged, colossal rocks.

In one of the rooms, Tobirama and the Second Raikage were holding their summit.

Though they were different in nature, both had inherited the title of "Kage" from their idealistic predecessors and had built their reputations primarily through their political achievements.

Both had served as the right-hand men and advisors to the first "Kage."

It was not merely because they shared the title of the Second that there was so much resonance between them.

The two "Kage" sat opposite each other across a long table.

The Second A sat at the back of the room, with the character for "Lightning" hanging behind him.

Tobirama sat with his back to the entrance, flanked by Hiruzen and Diejian.

Tobirama cast a glance at Diejian.

When they had first arrived at Kumogakure, Diejian had been somewhat restless regarding the novel environment of this foreign village.

Even Tobirama had been slightly concerned, but now, acting as Tobirama's guard, he stood by with proper decorum and conduct.

Seeing that the education in self-discipline had successfully borne fruit, Tobirama felt a sense of relief.

A military alliance concluded under equal conditions—there was no need to rush.

Slowly but surely, they were advancing the final confirmation of the important matters regarding the alliance between Konoha and Kumogakure.

"Lord Hokage, that ninja over there must be Diejian Senju. I have heard of him from my subordinate, Dodai. They say he possesses astonishing skill despite his youth. Truly worthy of being a direct descendant of Lord Hashirama and a disciple of Lord Hokage."

"Hmph... this fellow is still quite immature. During the last Great War, the fame of those two over there—the 'Cloud's Twin Lights'—reached even Konoha."

But occasionally, the conversation would drift.

Sometimes it was about the content of the previous Chunin Exams, sometimes about the lives of their predecessors, and sometimes about the past Great War.

Perhaps they were also probing each other's depths.

Even though the alliance had been decided, Tobirama seemed to have no intention of making any complete concessions.

Especially since, in the previous Chunin Exams, Diejian had left Kumogakure's strongest Genin severely injured and forced to forfeit.

Though he felt a slight awkwardness, Diejian did not let it show on his face; he simply stood silently by Tobirama's side, casting a glance at the two large men standing beside the Raikage.

They were men with long hair, wearing unique headgear, with three whisker-like marks etched onto their cheeks.

Known as the Gold and Silver Brothers of Kumogakure, they were famous as the village's greatest pride and combat strength.

Legend had it that they had once challenged the Nine-Tails before it was sealed by Diejian's grandmother, Mito Uzumaki. It was said they were swallowed whole, only to survive by gnawing on the flesh inside the beast's belly and eventually escaping; their stories were countless, starting with that very legend.

During the previous First Shinobi World War, on the front lines between Konoha and Kumogakure, they had fully utilized the Nine-Tails chakra they had plundered to slaughter many members of the Senju clan fighting on the front.

Tobirama's partner had also perished in that battle.

Although he was only an infant at the time, Diejian, who had heard the rumors, and Hiruzen, who had actually known the battlefield, were both extremely tense during the conversation between Tobirama and A.

They knew well that these two men were not so foolish as to be bound by personal grudges and destroy the alliance, but that was another matter entirely.

It was precisely because the human heart is unpredictable that war had continued to this day.

—Or perhaps, this was a test of sorts.

Colliding with each other's hatred on the eve of the alliance, preparing for a more stable union through mutual understanding.

It was a manifestation of firm resolve, knowing full well the hatred they harbored for one another, yet enduring it for the sake of the next generation, for the sake of the children.

It was an earnest wish, praying for a world truly free of conflict.

Diejian was reminded that he had a mountain of things to learn.

He thought that after this meeting concluded, he would take the initiative to ask Tobirama for guidance.

He closed his eyes and recalled his late grandfather.

Diejian was a child who did not know war.

Although he knew the pain of losing someone important, he did not understand the scars of war.

Even so, he knew the intense desire held by his grandfather, Hashirama, and his master, Tobirama.

The end of the sorrow that was war had begun—Tobirama Senju, the hero who stood at the very front to pave the way and finally arrived at this point.

Diejian felt proud to be his disciple.

Though, to Tobirama, he would never say it aloud.

"...Eh?"

—A deafening blast.

Looking out from the windows of the Raikage Mansion, a corner of Kumogakure had exploded and vanished.

In the split second of his stunned silence, a figure descended from the ceiling.

The sound of metal clashing—that Diejian could react instantly was the result of the rigorous training he had received from Tobirama.

He blocked the surprise attack from the ceiling with a Kunai held in a reverse grip, but an attack bolstered by the weight of gravity was not something he could fully withstand.

Diejian was sent flying, forced to distance himself from Tobirama.

"Monkey, are you alright!"

"Lord Second! Damn it, Diejian, I leave it to you!!"

Hiruzen shouted.

The ninjas attacking Hiruzen were one more than those on Diejian's side, totaling two.

The opponents appeared to be formidable experts; Hiruzen was also sent flying, crashing through the window glass.

Hiruzen tried to adjust his posture in mid-air to return to Tobirama's side, but he was blocked by a follow-up surprise attack raining down from the roof, and he fell helplessly.

"Lord Hokage! What is the meaning of this, who—"

Diejian used the Shadow Clone Technique, letting his clones stand in front as if to protect him.

Behind Diejian, his clone formed the seals for Wood Release, and his body gradually became covered in wooden armor.

While fighting the attackers, Diejian directed his Shadow Clone to head toward Tobirama.

There were three attackers inside the room.

Diejian was dealing with one, which effectively meant two remained.

If the Gold and Silver Brothers each took on one, they could break through.

The moment he thought this—as he tried to grasp the situation and call out—the Raikage's voice was cut short.

"Guh—"

Following that was the pained sound of Tobirama.

Diejian's Shadow Clone vanished.

A hair-raising, evil chakra filled the room.

Even though Diejian was not a sensory type, he could feel the vicious killing intent through his very skin.

A lump of hatred assaulted Diejian's spirit.

But Diejian was not so weak as to be intimidated by this.

He transformed his arm into wood and struck the ninja before him in the face; thin, elongated branches entered the ninja's nostrils and mouth, piercing through the back of his skull.

After a momentary spasm, the strength left the attacker's body.

Unintentionally ending up in a posture of holding the attacker's body, Diejian glanced over the corpse's shoulder and saw a sight that should not have existed.

"--!!"

The evil arm of a monster cloaked in red Nine-Tails chakra had pierced through Tobirama's abdomen.

Diejian could no longer endure it; he swung his arm and flung the attacker's corpse aside.

He let out a roar of fury, screaming out.

Diejian could not understand why things had turned out this way.

Today was supposed to be a day worth celebrating, and the regret welling up inside him was unstoppable.

Even so, what Diejian had to do now was rescue the Second Hokage and provide protection.

Seeing Tobirama, his master, spitting blood and wearing an expression of agony, a surge of emotion so intense it made Diejian tremble rose within him.

The reason he could suppress this emotion was that he grasped why the Gold and Silver Brothers had not engaged in a fair fight.

He saw Ginkaku's evil grin amidst the blood spattered beside the blood-drenched Raikage.

Tobirama was indeed old.

Past sixty, he was well beyond his prime.

Furthermore, having retired from the battlefield for nearly twenty years, his senses had likely dulled compared to when he galloped across the front lines.

Even so, Tobirama was the Hokage.

He was the head of the Senju clan.

It was impossible for him to lose to ordinary ninjas.

However, the Gold and Silver Brothers were not ordinary.

They had unleashed the full power of a partial Nine-Tails transformation, combined with a complete surprise attack.

Moreover, they had exploited the opening when Tobirama defeated the two attackers in the room, leaving him unable to react to that ambush.

But Tobirama was no pushover.

He drew a Kunai and stabbed it into the arm that had pierced him.

At the same time, he struck with his knee, snapping the arm's bone.

Diejian ran to the side of Tobirama, who had broken free and created some distance.

Diejian approached with a worried expression, asking, "Are you alright?" as he reached out to treat the wound.

But Tobirama stopped him with a hand and cast a sharp gaze toward the monster.

"So that is the power of the Nine-Tails? It's a far cry from the real thing."

"That is the Nine-Tails...?"

To Tobirama, who was struggling to remain calm and speak, the monster—Kinkaku—laughed.

The red chakra cloak was proof of a Tailed Beast transformation.

The volume of chakra was far inferior to the true Nine-Tails, but the power of a Tailed Beast attack was genuine.

In fact, the wound Tobirama had inflicted seemed to have already healed, and the arm that should have been broken was moving without any hindrance.

Diejian swallowed hard.

—I'm sorry, everyone. This might be the end.

The Nine-Tails, the strongest Tailed Beast, once controlled by Madara and sealed away by Hashirama.

The entity currently standing before them was truly a monster wreathed in oppressive pressure, fully deserving of its reputation.

To say it was a lower grade than the original was no laughing matter—but Diejian was Tobirama's bodyguard.

Even if it was only in name, Diejian was happy.

He was happy to be recognized as Tobirama's confidant, standing on equal footing with Hiruzen and Kagami.

Therefore, even if it meant betting his life, he would fulfill his duty as a shinobi.

It was precisely because this was Diejian's ninja way that he had been able to overcome such grueling training.

They were deep in enemy territory now; survival was unlikely.

What came to mind were the smiling faces of Tsunade and Ina.

Juri's puffed-up cheeks and Sakumo's dumbfounded expression.

A happy, everyday life.

Because of that, he wanted to die in a way that would not betray them.

The moment Diejian stood before Tobirama with the resolve of the dead—

"I am truly sorry that things have come to this, Lord Hokage."

There was the clamor of an earthen wall being blown away and the roar of the floor being destroyed.

Ginkaku, struck in the side of the face, crashed through the wall and flew outside, while Kinkaku, struck from above, shattered the floor and was slammed into the first level.

Emerging leisurely from the dust and smoke was the Second Raikage, A, covered in blood.

"I haven't even had time to feel ashamed for failing to notice this coup d'état. But Lord Hokage, if I let you die here, I cannot answer to my predecessor. Please, go. I will stop Kinkaku and Ginkaku."

"--I feel this regret from the bottom of my heart."

Tobirama and Diejian's decision was swift.

Tobirama nodded and took flight, with Diejian following closely behind.

Just after, Kinkaku leaped from the ground to stop Tobirama from leaving, but the Second Raikage pounced on him to hold him back.

Watching the hero of Kumogakure vanish into the chaos, Diejian lowered his eyes with a solemn expression.

He was worried about the Hiruzen they had left behind.

"Diejian, don't worry about Monkey. That brat is the most 'capable' ninja I know. He won't die so easily."

Tobirama hid the pain of his own wounds, as if that were the duty of the Hokage, and encouraged Diejian's heart.

"Escape Kumogakure first. Diejian, send clones to Danzo and the others. We will rendezvous outside the village."

Diejian nodded and used the Wood Clone Technique, scattering his clones.

He didn't use Shadow Clones because he needed them to act as messengers.

It would be troublesome if they vanished too early.

He went a step further and performed the summoning seal to call forth a Slug, sticking it onto Tobirama.

Given the intensity of their movement, it would likely only provide emergency treatment, but it was better than nothing.

While sprinting through the air toward the outskirts of the village, Diejian spotted a one-eyed ninja on the ground.

The unique technique was recognizable even from a distance—in all likelihood, it was Dodai, whom he had crossed paths with during the Chunin Exams.

He had hoped to have the chance to meet him during a time of peace.

He felt a sense of respect for the man who had once pushed him to the brink of death.

He had even thought it might be nice to go sightseeing in Kumogakure.

Diejian shook off all such thoughts and kept running.

Now, he had to survive and return to Konoha.

He never looked back again.

★

Running through the gaps in the branches within the lush, green forest.

Diejian glanced at Tobirama, whose breathing had become labored.

Was the Slug's healing unable to keep up, or was it—

"Old man, that wound..."

"Hmm... it's likely the Nine-Tails' chakra."

The Nine-Tails' chakra was madness itself, wreathed in immense hatred and killing intent.

To a human body, it was nothing but poison.

That was why the Gold and Silver Brothers were so lauded.

It was said they had mastered the Nine-Tails' chakra.

In this world, the only ones who could handle the Nine-Tails' chakra were its jinchuriki, or Hashirama, who had once been a user of Wood Release.

After running for a while, Tobirama told Diejian to stop for the moment, and the two descended to the ground together.

Tobirama was a pure sensory-type ninja.

He sensed the presence of his comrades nearby and intended to use this location as a rendezvous point.

Tobirama adjusted his breathing, maintaining his composure.

Katsuyu and Diejian channeled chakra into Tobirama's wounds to treat them.

Diejian peered at Tobirama's expression.

The silent Tobirama was lost in thought.

As things stood, there was still a method that could guarantee survival.

The Flying Thunder God technique—a space-time ninjutsu capable of traversing space, allowing one to instantly teleport from this place and time back to Konohagakure.

In his prime, Tobirama possessed the strength to return with his entire elite force with ease.

But now, aged as he was, he could transport at most two or three people.

Considering the amount of chakra required to use the Flying Thunder God, a round trip was grueling, and it was difficult for everyone to survive.

Furthermore, being wounded and eroded by the Nine-Tails' chakra, it was doubtful whether even those "two or three people" could be transported.

However, Tobirama was the Hokage.

He was the indispensable symbol of the village.

Even if the elite force, including Diejian, were wiped out, Tobirama alone must—

"Lord Second, are you alright!"

"Monkey, is it? You've returned at a good time."

"Kagami!"

"Lord Second, Diejian..."

Hiruzen, though stained with blood and mud, arrived at Tobirama's side looking spirited.

Following him, Kagami, Torifu, and Danzo arrived, and shortly after, Koharu and Homura also successfully rendezvoused.

The ability to reunite the scattered elite force was largely due to Diejian's skill.

The connection between Diejian's Wood Clones—while Wood Clones could not return experience or memories to the original body, they could constantly share information.

This was similar to the consciousness resonance and sharing ability possessed by the Katsuyu of Shikkotsu Forest, a unique capability exclusive to Wood Clones.

The Wood Clones sent to each person had acted as guides.

"We've been surrounded..."

Tobirama closed his eyes, touching the ground with his fingertips.

He refined his chakra, probing the surrounding presence.

Diejian did not know; he held his breath and waited.

He urged himself to speak up.

To tell Tobirama that he hoped he would return alone.

The silence of the forest was irritating.

His hands were trembling.

There was a fear of death.

However, he had survived the previous Chunin Exams.

The fear Diejian felt now was not directed at death itself.

—He had told Ina that he had something he wanted to say to her.

He had asked her to wait, and they had made a promise that he would return.

"The enemy... twenty people. Judging by this tracking ability, it's Kumogakure—experts, the Kinkaku Force?"

"If it's Kinkaku, that means—"

The Second Raikage had already—.

Diejian could not bring himself to say the words in the end.

Tobirama nodded quietly.

Despite being wounded, he was, after all, a ninja capable of killing the Second Raikage.

Even if it was a surprise attack, they were experts capable of wounding Tobirama.

"There are eight of us here, including Lord Second; there's no way we can fight this."

"Homura! How can you be so spineless? The enemy hasn't clearly pinpointed our location yet. We should set an ambush to catch them off guard and break through to escape—"

"It's no use, Koharu. In this situation, someone has to act as a decoy to draw their attention."

"A decoy mission... that's basically a death sentence. Who, exactly..."

A heavy silence fell, not a sound to be heard.

Tobirama kept his gaze fixed on everyone, as if waiting for something.

Diejian peered at the expression on each person's face.

The way they lowered their heads in unease looked like fear.

Only Hiruzen closed his eyes for a moment, then cast a look filled with iron will toward Tobirama.

Diejian closed his eyes as well.

This must be Diejian's turning point.

Even if he couldn't put it into words, Diejian felt it.

There would be nothing wrong with running away right here.

It would only mean that Diejian's way of thinking would change.

From this point on, he would simply prioritize himself over the village.

He would live for Ina as a human being, before living as a ninja.

That would not be a bad thing.

Ina would surely say, "I'm so glad you came back alive," with a smile.

If Hashirama were still alive, he would surely say the same.

However, Diejian's heart would not allow it.

If he were to shrink back now out of regret for his own life, Diejian would be as good as dead even if he survived.

His soul would break.

As a ninja of Konoha, what Diejian desired was a life and death with dignity.

If he did not show that resolve now, he would never reach the "dream of the future."

Diejian took a deep breath and said, quietly but clearly:

"I will go."

Two voices overlapped.

Diejian and Hiruzen looked at each other and frowned.

"Hiruzen, Diejian!"

Kagami's voice carried a tone of reproach.

"Don't worry. Don't let my looks fool you; I consider myself the most capable among you all. I won't die. So, Diejian, you should—"

"Heh, brother. The enemy is that Kinkaku. A monster possessing the chakra of the Nine-Tails. The only thing that can stand against a Tailed Beast is Wood Release. I am the suitable candidate. Besides, I have the Body Flicker Technique. Once everyone has escaped, I can catch up immediately."

Watching Hiruzen's wry smile and Diejian's shrug, Danzo's expression twisted.

Danzo was afraid.

He was terrified of being the one to act as bait; although he believed that dying in the line of duty was a matter of course for a ninja, he could not bring himself to act on it.

Words meant to encourage himself swirled in his mind, but the desire "not to die" deep in his heart held his body captive.

In a situation where the reality of death was imminent, Danzo recoiled.

Danzo was a ninja with high self-esteem.

He revered the village, and he trusted and loved Tobirama, who served as Hokage.

Despite this, he felt a sense of relief at escaping death.

Somewhere deep inside, he felt glad that his friends and juniors were dying in his stead.

"I don't have to die," he sighed in relief, feeling at ease.

Danzo knew this was shameful.

His pride as a ninja rebuked him, and no one else.

Danzo could not forgive himself for his own cowardice and weakness.

"Shut up, Hiruzen, Diejian!—I, I was going to raise my hand to go! But you two!!"

"Danzo, you..."

"..."

As if to shake something off, or perhaps to endure something, Danzo raised his voice, his expression twisted in agony.

At Danzo's flustered state, Hiruzen showed a look of confusion, not knowing what to do.

However, Diejian felt he could vaguely understand Danzo's feelings.

Hiruzen had volunteered to face death for his comrades from the bottom of his heart.

He had displayed true courage that transcended fear, and the Will of Fire that should be inherited—the willingness to sacrifice oneself to protect one's comrades.

Diejian, however, was slightly different.

Diejian was, in truth, no different from Danzo.

Had he been a step slower in his decision-making, he too would have been driven by the same self-reproach, consumed by the same agonizing pain as Danzo.

For until just a moment ago, Diejian had also been troubled, caught in hesitation.

It was not because of such things that Diejian had risen to the occasion.

Certainly, that sentiment was not entirely absent, but it was not the deciding factor.

It was because he felt that this way was simply cooler.

Rather than constantly blaming himself for fleeing out of fear.

Rather than being imprisoned by the thought of being condemned for shrinking away.

Diejian vaguely felt that this way of living must be his own Ninja Way.

To not bring shame upon the "Senju" name, to make his friends proud, to be himself—

The difference between Danzo and Diejian, and Hiruzen.

What was it?

Was it the firm resolve of "how a ninja should be"?

Or was it the intense desire of "how one wants to be"?

Was it the resilient mental strength to carry out and protect one's own pride?

—No, that was not it.

The difference between Danzo and Diejian, and Hiruzen.

It was Senju Hashirama's "Will of Fire."

Though Hashirama was an idealist, he loved the village more than anyone.

Though Tobirama was a realist, he valued the village more than anyone.

Because Hashirama loved the village, he spontaneously hoped that everyone would love the village as well.

Because Tobirama valued the village, he decreed that protecting the village must come first.

For a ninja, the most important thing is the "heart."

In the critical moments when facing a life-or-death crisis, what ultimately determines survival, regardless of anything else, is first and foremost the "heart."

Indeed, following Hashirama's approach could appear unreliable on a practical level.

But following Tobirama's way of thinking could lead to stagnation on a spiritual level.

That was why the Senju brothers had walked their path supporting one another.

The alliance, the end of the war, the rise of the village—the path Hashirama walked could not have been realized without Tobirama's realistic methods.

Yet, for that final step, what was needed was, after all, Hashirama's "gentle heart."

Because he was young—had Danzo been a few years older, perhaps he too could have chosen to sacrifice himself for his comrades.

Danzo was an excellent ninja.

He was a talent whom Tobirama held in particularly high regard.

Surely, given just a few more years, he would have reached the same realm as Hiruzen through his own strength.

Hiruzen knew Hashirama.

He had directly inherited the original "Will of Fire."

Diejian was the same.

He understood the love for the village (Hashirama) and the rules of the ninja (Tobirama).

That a gap existed at this moment was only natural.

The pity was that this moment, "this very instant," had arrived.

Thus, Danzo could only turn his back on his heart, which trembled with fear, and rely on shouting to steel himself.

"Self-sacrifice is the duty of a ninja. My father and grandfather both died as ninjas on the battlefield. Therefore—"

"—The role of the decoy is, of course, mine. You are the young inheritors of the Will of Fire who will protect the village in the future."

It was Tobirama's declaration that cut Danzo's words short.

Danzo's eyes widened, while Diejian and Hiruzen gasped.

"No, that's impossible! You are the Hokage! There is no ninja in the village more powerful than you!"

"Danzo. You insist on competing with Monkey over everything. But this situation requires unity among comrades. Do not bring personal disputes into this."

These were Tobirama's indifferent words, spoken after seeing through Danzo's heart.

Overwhelmingly correct statements can sometimes leave a person with nowhere to turn.

Trembling with frustration, Danzo lowered his head.

Hiruzen looked at Danzo with concern.

This also eroded Danzo's heart.

"Indecision is a fact. First, you must examine yourself, and understand yourself without losing your composure. Continuing like this will only put your comrades in danger."

"--I agree with Danzo-san's opinion. Old man, I think you must survive."

"Diejian..."

Danzo, who had been looking down, looked at Diejian in surprise.

Diejian was facing Tobirama with a firm expression.

Tobirama met his disciple's gaze.

Thinking back, this mischievous disciple had always avoided facing Tobirama directly.

Realizing that he was finally able to face him at this final moment, Tobirama felt a sense of joy.

On the other hand, it seemed necessary to show him the "final task" of a master.

He was a hundred years too early to talk back to his master.

"I told you to call me Second Hokage."

Tobirama smiled slightly, but the next instant, he unleashed a sharp gaze.

"Diejian. You brat, you've talked back to me no matter what, haven't you? You've been an arrogant disciple until the very end. But considering that 'hidden thing' of yours, that is only natural."

Words suddenly thrown out, piercing through to Diejian's core.

Diejian wavered, gasping for air.

He wavered because he had been discovered.

He trembled at the intensity of Tobirama—a severity that remained unchanged despite having noticed, and a warmth hidden within that severity.

This was a different feeling from when he was acknowledged by Hashirama.

Emotions, rolling like scorching heat, enveloped Diejian.

"Diejian, walk the path you believe in, the path you should take. Bear the name of Senju, and reveal the new 'hand' that must be grasped--I leave it to you."

--I leave it to you.

Tobirama had said it.

The ninja Diejian respected most had entrusted the "future" to him.

Even if it meant an end, Diejian trembled with passion.

He had always hated Tobirama.

He had always respected Tobirama.

He had chased after that massive back, the complete opposite of Hashirama.

Thinking that one day he would surpass him and make him look at him with new eyes.

But Tobirama had acknowledged Diejian a long time ago.

He believed that Diejian possessed the strength to move forward while overcoming that "hidden danger."

If this wasn't worth being happy about, what was?

A glint appeared in the corners of Diejian's eyes, and his shoulders shook as he lowered his head.

For Tobirama, there was nothing left to say to Diejian.

He had entrusted all his sentiments into those words.

Surely, they must have been conveyed.

If they hadn't, it would only mean that Tobirama's judgment of people was poor.

In that case, there was nothing to worry about.

The things Tobirama entrusted to Diejian—they were about the Senju, and about the Uchiha.

Diejian was still too young to be entrusted with the village.

Perhaps in a few years, he would have the capacity to shoulder the heavy responsibility of the Third Hokage, but for now--

Therefore, Tobirama entrusted everything else to the young man who possessed the strongest heart here and now.

"In any case, Danzo, Monkey, Diejian. There is no need for those of your age to rush. That moment will come sooner or later. Until then, keep your lives safe."

There was no more time; Tobirama stood up.

Diejian and Danzo could only watch in silence.

Because they felt Tobirama's tragic resolve and iron will.

As Hokage, his priority was to pass the young Will of Fire on to the next generation.

From the very beginning, the idea of abandoning an elite unit to let one person survive was never going to work.

Tobirama was not such a small-minded man.

"Monkey."

Tobirama said softly.

Hiruzen looked up at Tobirama in surprise.

"Protect those who admire the village and trust in you. Then, nurture them. Nurture those to whom you can entrust the next era. From tomorrow on, you are—the Hokage."

I leave Konoha to you.

Everyone's eyes widened.

Hiruzen, in particular, was so stunned by the declaration that he could not speak, but he was, after all, the "most reliable ninja."

In the next instant, he bore the weight of those words.

He accepted respectfully and bowed his head.

Among the elite Tobirama had gathered, Hiruzen was the most considerate of his comrades and the quickest to make decisions; Tobirama entrusted everything that would follow to him.

Although there was much left undone, as long as Kagami, Diejian, Hiruzen, and Danzo worked together, everything would surely go smoothly.

Tobirama believed in this.

There was nothing left to say, and Tobirama turned away.

This would be their final farewell in this life.

Led by Hiruzen, everyone offered a deep salute to Tobirama's retreating back.

Hiruzen was the first to leap away.

Torifu and Danzo followed closely behind.

Stopping Koharu from speaking to the motionless Diejian, the three of them, including Homura and Kagami, also vanished from sight.

Diejian stood up.

To linger here would be to trample upon Tobirama's trust.

That was the one thing Diejian could not do.

And so, Diejian turned his back to Tobirama.

Then, across the distance of their backs, he offered words filled with immense emotion.

"Lord Second. My great master. Thank you for everything until now. May your fortune in battle be prosperous."

"--Diejian. You can just call me 'Old Man'—there."

To the very end, Diejian could not best Tobirama.

Pretending not to notice the heat he could not suppress flowing down his cheeks, he leaped away.

Left behind, Tobirama stood alone, a faint smile appearing on his face.

★

With Hiruzen in the vanguard and Diejian bringing up the rear, the elite unit sprinted forward.

Once they crossed the border of the Land of Fire, they would be safe for the time being.

It was unknown how long the wounded Tobirama could hold out, and now, even a fraction of a second was incredibly precious.

Therefore, "that" was inevitable.

Toward the middle of the elite unit, a black "something" approached at astonishing speed.

If not for Kagami, who possessed the Sharingan, they likely would not have been able to react.

Kagami, who had deflected it with a Kunai, broke away from the unit, and Koharu, who had been right behind him, ran toward him.

To block the black "something" attempting to pursue, Diejian rushed out and unleashed the Wood Release.

Seeing the black "something" pierce through the trees and come to a halt, every hair on Diejian's body stood on end.

"This is—"

I see.

If one were to call it strange, then yes, this was it.

Beyond the Gold and Silver Brothers, Kumogakure possessed other experts.

Rumor had it there was a giant who could cover his entire body in Lightning Armor and exert terrifying power—

No matter how formidable the Gold and Silver Brothers were, it would be difficult to gather enough people to simultaneously oppose the Hokage, the Raikage, their guards, and all the ninjas of Kumogakure.

Therefore, he should have realized it.

"You bastard—you're still alive!?"

The "other piece" that existed behind the Gold and Silver Brothers, who were positioned on the chessboard.

"That's my line. I thought I'd killed you, but you're quite tenacious."

The hidden existence of the "Bishop."