Fukasaku and Shima made their way up the stone steps, passing through layer after layer of halls until they finally reached the sacred ground in the deepest part of Mount Myōboku.
It was a broad plaza surrounded by massive stone pillars, their surfaces carved with ancient runes that glimmered faintly beneath the moonlight.
At the far end of the plaza stood a magnificent hall in silence. Its doors were wide open, and a massive figure could vaguely be seen within.
The two elders softened their steps and entered the hall.
Upon a raised platform that resembled an altar, a gigantic orange Toad sat cross-legged.
His body was like a small mountain. His eyes remained shut, and his breathing was long and steady, as though he had slept for a thousand years.
He was Mount Myōboku's supreme ruler—the Great Toad Sage.
Fukasaku stopped beneath the platform and spoke respectfully. "Great Toad Sage."
There was no response.
Shima spoke next, raising her voice slightly. "Great Toad Sage, we have something to report."
There was still no movement.
Fukasaku and Shima exchanged a glance, both smiling helplessly.
The Great Toad Sage was simply too old. He often fell asleep, and waking him required a little patience.
"Great Toad Sage—"
The two spoke in unison, their voices louder this time.
The enormous Toad finally stirred. His eyelids trembled faintly as he slowly opened them a crack.
A pair of clouded eyes that nevertheless seemed capable of seeing through everything appeared, their gaze falling upon the two elders below.
"Mm... Fukasaku and Shima."
The Great Toad Sage's voice was low and slow, thick with drowsiness.
"Do you... need something?"
Fukasaku stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
"Great Toad Sage, a human boy arrived at Mount Myōboku today. He came from Konoha and has white hair.
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