Konoha, the Senju Main Residence.
The sky was particularly clear that day. Sunlight filtered through the courtyard's cherry trees onto the flagstones, and a gentle breeze stirred the leaves.
The village remained peaceful, but an indescribable heaviness hung over the Senju Clan's residence.
Konoha's Second Hokage, Tobirama Senju, was at the end of his life.
Once one of the brightest stars among the Shinobi World's strongest, he had devoted his entire life to building and developing Konoha. Yet even the mightiest ninja could not withstand the ravages of time.
As death approached, he summoned his students.
The members of Konoha High Command, his students, and those closest to him hurried over upon receiving his summons.
Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi wore a grave expression. He knew his teacher had reached the end of his life, and that he would soon inherit Tobirama's Will of Fire and shoulder Konoha's future alone.
Shimura Danzō remained silent, his fists clenched tight, his heart a tangle of emotions.
He had always wanted to surpass his teacher and prove that his own ideals were right, but now he felt more helpless than ever.
Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu stood nearby as well, their gazes conflicted.
Besides those students, Tsunade, Orochimaru, and Jiraiya stood outside the door, solemnly awaiting Tobirama Senju's summons.
Uchiha Shinichi also arrived quietly. For once, his usual flippant smile was absent, replaced by a trace of grief he could not conceal.
"Old man Tobirama..." he murmured, his gaze darkening slightly before he stepped into the hall.
The man on the sickbed retained his customary dignity. Even with his life nearing its end, his eyes remained sharp, as though they could see through everything in the world.
His silver-white hair had long since faded, and the years had etched deep lines into his face.