Land of Lightning, Daimyo Mansion.
A fierce horse raced through the streets, galloping straight toward the Tenshukaku.
"The envoy has sent word. Senju Hashirama has already slain the mastermind behind it all."
The Land of Lightning's Daimyo's wife, her eyes red-rimmed, told everyone what the report said.
The dull-looking middle-aged man, Tianguang Shengping, accepted the report with trembling hands. Tears suddenly welled up and fell onto the paper, blurring the writing slightly as he mournfully cried, "Father!"
"Elder Brother, take care of yourself!"
Tianguang Zouta, whose features bore a fifty-percent resemblance to his, rested a hand on his shoulder. Their cheeks pressed close as they comforted one another.
A man dressed similarly to them stood not far away, casting a complicated glance at his brothers. Seeing the three people ahead crying together, he too began to wail aloud.
For a moment, cries of grief filled the palace, and the servants standing nearby quietly withdrew.
The Daimyo's wife wiped away her tears, braced herself against the armrest, and rose to her feet. Sighing at the grief-stricken crowd, she said, "Eldest, help me up."
"Mother?"
The dull-looking man walked toward the steps, steadied her staggering figure, and helped her to her feet.
Supported by his arm, the elderly woman stood atop the platform and looked down upon the crowd below. Though her voice was aged, it allowed no doubt. "The Daimyo's great vengeance has been avenged. Although he did not name an heir before his death, by custom, the legitimate eldest son shall succeed him."
"To inherit the position of Daimyo, we must also hear the opinions of the ministers."
"Second Brother, don't make Mother angry again!"
"Mother, I suddenly feel unwell. Please excuse me."
The atmosphere in the palace abruptly froze, as though time itself had solidified in that instant.
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