Land of Fire, Konoha, before the Memorial Stone.
The sky was dark, thick clouds rolling in. Heaven's sorrowful tears were about to fall from above.
A crowd of Konoha Ninja, along with numerous officials and clan heads from every clan, all lowered their heads in silence, their faces grief-stricken.
"Lord Fugaku, should Hatake Kakashi's Sharingan be reclaimed?"
"The war has only just ended. Settle down. Since it was Uchiha Obito's final wish, respect the will of the deceased. It's only one Sharingan; it cannot wield the Sharingan's true power."
Uchiha Fugaku sighed inwardly. Though his clansmen were united, they seemed unable to see the bigger picture.
"I heard the Third Hokage is about to resign and take responsibility. No one knows who the next Hokage will be, but some of the clan's jonin are preparing to nominate you, Clan Head..."
"Silence. Let this matter end here..."
Uchiha Inabi fell silent and followed Fugaku's gaze to the Fire Fan placing white flowers before the Memorial Stone.
Uchiha Itachi, standing beside his father, looked ahead thoughtfully. Once the memorial service ended, the young boy glanced around before finally walking toward the figure in a secluded corner, who was quietly sneering.
"What is the meaning of life?"
"Life has no meaning whatsoever unless one can attain eternity. Humans are such fragile and helpless creatures..."
"Meaning itself represents nothingness. It is merely a construct created by humans. But as long as one lives on, they will eventually find their own goal—just like this troublesome snake."
Uchiha Itachi turned around. Beneath the Demon Fox Mask, his gaze seemed to radiate kindness.
Orochimaru, whose words and memories had been interrupted, chuckled coldly before speaking softly.
"That sample you provided truly intrigued me. It appears to be an artificial creation involving Yin-Yang Release. Did you find ruins