Mito Uzumaki gazed at Shinichi, a flicker of complicated emotion passing through her time-worn eyes.
Though her face showed no obvious tension, the subtle changes at the corners of her eyes betrayed her unease.
She understood that she had borne the tremendous burden of the Nine-Tails all this time. Today, she would finally lay it down, yet she could not predict the price.
"I'm ready," Mito said slowly, her voice calm but heavy.
She took a deep breath and gently pressed a hand against her abdomen. The Nine-Tails' power remained silent within her, yet she could still faintly sense his immense energy, as though it were waiting for something to stir it.
"Grandma Mito." Shinichi took a gentle step closer, his voice soft but firm. "I know you've devoted your entire life to Konoha, and the power of the Nine-Tails' negative emotions has been affecting you all along. Your sacrifice and perseverance have inspired us all. But today, we're going to change things and free you from this heavy burden!"
Mito slowly closed her eyes. After a moment of silence, she gave a slight nod, as though making her final decision.
"Yes, Shinichi. The Nine-Tails shouldn't hold back Konoha's future or remain a burden on the village. I don't have much time left. I can't keep going like this!"
There was a trace of helplessness in her voice, but also unshakable resolve.
"If we can free the Nine-Tails' power and let him become Konoha's guardian beast, without having to sacrifice anyone else as a jinchūriki, then I'm willing."
Shinichi nodded, approval and tenderness flickering in his eyes.
"Grandma Mito, don't worry. I'll use everything I have to make sure this goes smoothly. The Nine-Tails' power will be divided and sealed, and you'll be free again!"
He looked at Tsunade beside