Chapter 48: Shadows in the Light
Assassin Yuto sat perched on the roof of a humble shop, blending into the tranquil night in Konoha. His title as "Assassin" allowed him to veil his presence, even from the heightened senses of Hashirama and Mito Uzumaki. The mission was clear: observe the legendary First Hokage, Senju Hashirama, and uncover the secrets surrounding his eventual demise.
For weeks, Yuto had followed Hashirama discreetly, carefully monitoring his movements and conversations. His target seemed restless lately, distracted by an unspoken worry. This tension reached a peak when Hashirama abruptly left a council meeting to head towards a sealed section of the Senju compound, a place shrouded in mystery.
Curious, Yuto silently pursued him, using his advanced perception techniques and hollow to remain undetectable.
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Hashirama entered a heavily fortified chamber within the compound. The room was dimly lit, its walls lined with intricate sealing scripts designed to ward off intruders. In the center lay a large sarcophagus, its surface adorned with Senju and Uchiha symbols.
"It's been a while, old friend," Hashirama murmured, approaching the sarcophagus. He placed his hand on the cold surface, his expression a mix of sorrow and resolve. "Even in death, I can't seem to escape the weight of our history."
However, as his chakra flowed into the seals, a jarring realization struck him—the sarcophagus was empty. Hashirama's eyes widened, his heart racing as he examined the seals. They were intact, undisturbed from the outside.
"No…" he whispered, stepping back. "This can't be…"
A chilling thought crossed his mind. He knew only one technique capable of this deception: Izanagi. Madara had faked his death.
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Assassin Yuto watched from the shadows, piecing together what he could. Hashirama's shock and the faint traces of chakra left behind told him that something extraordinary had occurred. The whispers of "Izanagi" reached his ears, confirming Yuto's suspicions.
Hashirama left the chamber in a hurry, his footsteps echoing through the halls. Yuto followed closely as the First Hokage headed straight for Mito Uzumaki's quarters.
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Mito Uzumaki was seated in meditation controlling nine tails when Hashirama burst into the room. Her serene expression turned to concern as she saw the turmoil on her husband's face.
"What's wrong, Hashirama?" she asked, rising to her feet.
"It's Madara," he said, his voice heavy. "His body is gone. He used Izanagi to escape death. He's still alive, Mito."
Mito's eyes narrowed. "You're certain?"
"Yes," Hashirama replied. "The seals were unbroken, yet his body is missing. There's no other explanation."
Mito's face hardened with worry. "If Madara is alive, he's a threat not just to Konoha but to the entire world. Hasirama life span is not much left due to fight with madara Uchiha in the valley of the end, What do you plan to do?"
"I must find him," Hashirama said resolutely. "I must confront him, end this once and for all, or bring him back if there's still a chance for reason."
Mito placed a hand on his shoulder, her voice gentle but firm. "You can't do this alone, Hashirama your life force is not much left. Let us send a team."
"No," he replied, shaking his head. "This is between Madara and me. I won't risk anyone else's lives. If anyone is to stop him, it has to be me."
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Assassin Yuto observed the exchange with interest, noting the unyielding determination in Hashirama's eyes. It was clear that the First Hokage saw this as his responsibility, a final act to protect the world from his former friend and rival.
Hashirama's next stop was Tobirama. The Second Hokage was in his study, meticulously drafting plans for Konoha's expanding administrative system. He looked up as Hashirama entered, immediately sensing his brother's urgency.
"Something's happened," Tobirama stated.
"Madara is alive," Hashirama said bluntly.
Tobirama's expression darkened. "Explain."
Hashirama recounted his discovery, and Tobirama listened intently, his analytical mind processing the implications.
"We should mobilize the ANBU," Tobirama said. "Track him down before he can act against Konoha."
"No," Hashirama said firmly. "This is my fight. I can't let anyone else carry this burden."
Tobirama scowled. "You're being reckless. This isn't just about you and Madara anymore. Your actions will affect the entire village."
"I know," Hashirama replied. "But I also know Madara better than anyone. If I can't stop him, no one can."
Tobirama clenched his fists, frustration evident. "You're too trusting, brother. If you go, there's no guarantee you'll return."
"Then so be it," any way my life span is not much left, Hashirama said with quiet determination. "If this is the price I must pay to secure peace, I'll gladly pay it."
Tobirama sighed, knowing he couldn't dissuade his brother. "At least take some precautions. Let Mito prepare protective seals, and don't hesitate to retreat if the situation becomes dire."
Hashirama nodded. "I'll be careful, Tobirama. I promise."