San Daime Hokage no Giden-三代目火影の疑念-
(The Doubts of the Third Hokage)
PROLOGUE : The Doubts of the Third Hokage
— You know... You remind me a lot of my brother. You're a bit naive at times, and you hesitate. But there's never just one choice; you always have to hesitate. Above all, stay realistic... But trust your heart too. My brother passed on something essential, which I've drummed into you time and again...»
— The Hokage's flame of will?»
— That's right.» he then looked me straight in the eye «If you have that will, that determination and that love for this village, then I'm not worried. You'll make mistakes… That's for sure. We're not perfect. But I'm certain you'll make an excellent Hokage. You, too, must find your own ideals, and strike a balance between them—that's all.»
— But... I'm not sure I can manage it...»
— I think you can achieve a lot if you put your mind to it. It's just that… you need to learn to believe in yourself. Otherwise, you'll never be able to rise to the challenge.»
I hung my head. He was right, of course... By worrying too much, I wasn't doing my job properly... How had I not realised that?
— Now, perform the breaking technique.» Master Tobirama ordered me.
I obeyed, and shortly afterwards, my master vanished in a cloud of smoke.
My heart sank. I felt as though I were reliving his death all over again. But I didn't let my emotions get the better of me. I had to stay strong, for the future, for the village. I had to stop asking myself all those questions; the important thing wasn't whether I was capable or not, I had to make sure I helped Konoha, using my abilities to the full, even if they weren't enough.
I clenched my fists.
I shall do my utmost to live up to your legacy, Master Tobirama, Lord Hashirama.
(Extract from Part 3)