Shinobi World No. 1.
Winter, Year 46 of Konoha.
Hiruzen Sarutobi's camp, northern Land of Fire.
The bitter winter wind blew from the north, carrying fine grains of snow that pattered against the tents. Hiruzen Sarutobi sat in the command tent, holding a cup of hot tea, his face bearing the composure of someone long accustomed to power. He was now nearly fifty, with steady features, sharp eyes, and the faintest hint of a smile always at his lips-the confidence of the "Shinobi Hero."
Tobirama Senju stood beside him, his silver hair gleaming coldly beneath the tent's lamplight. His red eyes remained fixed on the map before him, his finger moving slowly across the paper. He had a body brought back through Impure World Reincarnation, and he was also the Northern Army's "trump card."
"Teacher, Kumogakure's offensive has weakened."
Hiruzen Sarutobi set down his teacup.
"Sunagakure has closed its borders, Iwagakure has its hands full, and Kirigakure is tied down by the Uchiha. The pressure on us has eased considerably."
"Don't let your guard down."
Tobirama Senju's voice was cold.
"Kumogakure's Third Raikage isn't easy to deal with."
"I know."
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded.
"That's why I need you here to hold the fort, Teacher."
Tobirama Senju said nothing.
Just then, a commotion broke out beyond the tent.
"Enemy attack!"
"They're coming from the Land of Rain!"
"The Jashin Cult!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi frowned slightly.
"The Jashin Cult? What are they doing here?"
"I don't know."
Tobirama Senju turned and walked toward the tent's exit.
"Let's go take a look."
Outside the camp, on the snowfield.
Nagato stood on a rise, his dark red hair fluttering in the bitter wind. His Mangekyō Sharingan was already active, spirals and the Triangular Blade Pattern slowly rotating within his scarlet eyes. Yahiko stood beside