"All right, you two."
A voice both men knew well cut in, interrupting the undercurrents of hostility in the old rivals' exchange.
The speaker was Uzumaki Ashina, standing on the other Gold General square.
The former leader of the Uzumaki Clan had white hair and a white beard, his kindly face carrying an air of authority.
He stroked his snowy beard, his gaze sweeping over Tajima and Butsuma as he said slowly:
"Whatever grudges we held in life, now that we stand on this board, we are all bound by the rules of the Six Paths Life-and-Death Shogi.
Our movements, our power, and even part of our will must follow the course of the game and the commands of our general."
He paused, looking past the crowded pieces toward the other side of the board, where a young man stood on the Jade General square, his blond hair stirring, his presence as blazing as the sun and unfathomably deep.
"Besides, no matter how powerful your sons Hashirama, Tobirama, Madara, and Izuna may be..."
Uzumaki Ashina's tone grew meaningful.
"None of that changes one fact.
That blond young man over there is the true pillar of the present Shinobi World's side, and one of those directing the game."
His clouded yet wise eyes narrowed slightly, as though recalling something and seeking confirmation. "I believe I heard the Sage of Six Paths mention him earlier... his name is Naruto Uzumaki?"
When he spoke the surname "Uzumaki," Ashina gave it distinct emphasis, and a look of satisfaction and pride spread across his aged face despite himself.
He studied Naruto's distant figure, sensing that immense chakra, and grew more delighted the longer he looked.
"Wonderful... truly wonderful."
Uzumaki Ashina murmured, his beard trembling slightly with joy.
"To think that after my time, our Uzumaki