Summer, Year 15 of Konoha, beneath Hokage Rock.
The enormous stone likenesses of the successive Hokage looked down over all of Konoha, casting long, imposing shadows in the afternoon sunlight.
At that moment, Tobirama Senju stood on a temporary platform beneath the stone faces, wearing the White Hokage Robe and a conical hat, his expression solemn.
Before him stood a vast crowd of Konoha villagers and representatives from the various clans. Closer to him were several of his personal disciples-Hiruzen Sarutobi, Shimura Danzō, Mitokado Homura, and Utatane Koharu-as well as representatives of the younger generation of ninja who had already begun to distinguish themselves.
Everyone stood straight, listening to the Second Hokage's important speech on "the Senju Clan's full integration into Konoha."
Amplified by chakra, Tobirama Senju's voice rang across the broad square beneath Hokage Rock, clear, calm, and penetrating.
He expounded on the grand vision of "breaking down clan barriers and building Konoha's future together," painting a beautiful picture of the complete integration of "Senju" and "Konoha." His words shone with idealism and a profound love for the village.
Applause and cheers erupted from the crowd from time to time. Tears of excitement glistened in the eyes of many commoners and people from small and medium-sized clans, as though a truly equal, united Konoha lay right before them.
Hiruzen Sarutobi stood in the front row with his customary gentle yet resolute smile, nodding now and then, as though he deeply approved of his teacher's decision and shared in its glory. Shimura Danzō kept his gaze slightly lowered, an unreadable gleam in his single eye, the line of his mouth somewhat tight.
Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu wore expressions of steady support.
Upon the platform were an impassioned speech and a seemingly united leadership. The sun shone brightly, flags fluttered,