“The second Hokage’s last mission”

Uchiha Shisui took a deep breath, exhaling as he looked around. While he wanted to pursue Ginkaku and finish him off, he understood that his current state and Chakra reserves wouldn't allow it.

The technique he had used to defeat Kinkaku wasn't an ordinary genjutsu but the unique power of his Mangekyō Sharingan, called Disillusionment, an enhanced version of Tsukuyomi. This ability allowed him to pull an enemy's consciousness into a mental space he controlled completely. Any damage inflicted there would reflect onto the real body.

However, the cost of this ability was enormous. Using Mangekyō Sharingan, especially a high-caliber genjutsu like Disillusionment, drained his Chakra significantly. While he managed to defeat Kinkaku, he knew he couldn't afford to overuse it—his vision would worsen with every excessive use, and he feared the eventual blindness Mangekyō inflicted.

Just then, a system notification echoed in his mind:

[System Notification]

• Favorability from Senju Tobirama: +20.

• Relationship upgraded from "Close Friends" to "As Close as Brothers."

• Rewards: 200 Chakra Points and Impure World Reincarnation Jutsu unlocked.

Shisui clenched his fists, his satisfaction evident.

"With 5,000 Chakra points now, I've reached Kage-level reserves. And with the Impure World Reincarnation, this mission was worth it. But it's unfortunate that I didn't acquire the Flying Thunder God Technique…"

Putting those thoughts aside, Shisui turned his attention to Tobirama. The Second Hokage was pale and weak but still alive. Shisui gently lifted him, concern evident in his voice.

"Lord Tobirama, are you alright? Your injuries seem severe. I'm sorry my medical skills are limited, or I'd help you more."

Tobirama gave a faint smile, shaking his head. "It's not as bad as it looks. I'll manage. But… when did you awaken your Mangekyō Sharingan?"

"Just now," Shisui replied, his tone humble but sincere. "When I thought I might lose you, Lord Tobirama, I was overcome with despair and determination. My heart ached… and so did my eyes. Before I knew it, my Sharingan had evolved."

Tobirama raised an eyebrow. "And you weren't afraid? The Mangekyō's power is both a gift and a curse."

"I was never afraid," Shisui said, his voice cracking slightly as he deliberately forced tears to the corners of his eyes. "Lord Tobirama, you've always treated me with respect and kindness. To me, you're not just my mentor but the older brother I've always looked up to. Whether or not I could awaken Mangekyō didn't matter to me. Protecting Konoha—and protecting you—was all that mattered."

"Shisui…" Tobirama's voice softened, clearly moved by the young Uchiha's words.

Shisui's selflessness resonated deeply with Tobirama. Among all the Uchiha, Shisui was unique—unbound by the clan's historical grievances or thirst for vengeance.

Tobirama patted Shisui's shoulder, his stern gaze softening. "I've grown old and reckless. At twenty-five, you are the future of Konoha. Don't let yourself fall here; your strength is needed."

"Lord Tobirama…"

"Call me 'big brother' in private," Tobirama said with a rare smile.

Shisui nodded. "Big brother, your sacrifice for Konoha is noble, but I believe your death will lead to chaos."

"What do you mean?" Tobirama asked, his tone serious.

Shisui's expression darkened as he explained:

"The assassination of the Second Raikage by Kinkaku and Ginkaku wasn't a random act of treachery. I believe it was part of a larger political move within the Hidden Cloud. The Raikage likely opposed a faction within the village that sought war, so they eliminated him to take control."

Tobirama frowned but nodded. "That does seem plausible. But what does my death have to do with this?"

"Your death," Shisui said grimly, "would create a ripple effect across the ninja world. If both the Second Raikage and the Second Hokage, two of the most prominent leaders, fall within such a short span, the other villages will see it as an opportunity to strike. A new war would become inevitable—a war Konoha might not survive intact."

Tobirama crossed his arms. "Konoha is strong. Even if war comes, we have capable leaders and a foundation that will endure."

"But for how long?" Shisui countered. "While we may win the Second Ninja War, Konoha will be weakened. By the Third Ninja War, the village will have depleted most of its resources and bloodlines. Konoha's heritage will erode, and with a weakened Hokage like Hiruzen, compromises will be made—even sacrifices of Konoha's own people to avoid further conflict."

Tobirama's eyes widened. "Hiruzen wouldn't dare! I'd break his legs myself if he ever betrayed Konoha like that!"

Shisui remained silent but maintained his firm expression.

Tobirama let out a frustrated sigh, realizing the truth in Shisui's words. He had underestimated the rivalry between Hiruzen Sarutobi and Shimura Danzō. While he believed his teachings would guide them, jealousy and ambition had taken root.

"Shisui…" Tobirama said, narrowing his eyes. "If you see so clearly what must be done, why don't you become the Third Hokage?"

Shisui froze, stunned by the question. "M-Me?"

Tobirama nodded. "You have the clarity and resolve to lead Konoha into the future. If Hiruzen or Danzō isn't fit for the role, then you should take the mantle of Hokage."

Author's Note

There is no official evidence confirming that the Second Hokage's death occurred during the First Ninja War. This story expands on official timelines, integrating reasonable theories based on canon material.

• Timeline Adjustments:

• Uchiha Shisui: 25 years old.

• Sarutobi Hiruzen and teammates: 42 years old.

• Senju Tobirama: 60 years old.

• Ages align with most canon details, excluding minor discrepancies with other characters.