Konoha's Hero Memorial.
Standing to the side to receive the mourners were Tokuma Hyuga's family, dressed in mourning white, with the Third Hokage beside them.
Behind them stood a huge crowd. Hatake Kakashi, Hasebe Kazuaki, Asuma Sarutobi, Might Guy, Kurenai Yuhi, Akimichi Choza, Akimichi Ginza, Yamanaka San, Kotetsu Hagane, Izumo Kamizuki, Genma Shiranui, Namiashi Raidō, Iwashi Tatami, Yamashiro Aoba, and many others—more than half of Konoha's established ninja had come.
A little farther back were Hayato's classmates, and more than half of them had come as well. Nara Chinai had just returned from a mission and had not even had time to take off his green uniform. Aburame Shishin had come too, wrapped from head to toe in white bandages with only his eyes exposed. He sat in a wheelchair pushed by Aburame Muta. Neji Hyuga and Rock Lee were there as well.
Farther back still were Naruto, Sasuke, and the other students of the new generation.
There were also many people whose names Hayato did not know. They were people he had casually helped during missions or in everyday life, and they all remembered his kindness.
One by one, everyone stepped forward and silently laid down a white rose.
His ANBU colleagues were there too, though they did not reveal themselves. They remained hidden in the shadows, silently paying their respects.
Nara Shiosui, Hatake Kaito, Nishijima Rin...
Wait, where was Sarara?
Hayato did not see her. He circled around the area, but still could not find her.
As if guided by some unseen force, Hayato went to the grove where he had first met Sarara—the place where she had "assassinated" him.
Sarara was indeed there. She crouched on the ground with her head buried against her knees, letting out muffled sobs.
Hayato's heart suddenly ached.
"Sarara..." Hayato called softly,