Looking at the psychic space before him, Souta Kazuki suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of unease. Was this truly his own psychic space? Why did it feel as though there was an indescribable eccentricity about it?
Uchiha Madara and Senju Hashirama seemed inseparable, their bond resembling something beyond mere rivalry. Uchiha Izuna and Senju Tobirama, despite their past enmity, were engaged in a heated discussion that bordered on a competition of wits. In another corner, Senju Butsuma and Uchiha Tajima were shouting at each other with fierce passion, as if reliving their past conflicts.
Meanwhile, Might Duy had somehow struck up a conversation with Hatake Sakumo, both sharing thoughts on their respective ideologies. Uzumaki Mito had gathered Uzumaki Kushina and Uchiha Mikoto, chatting warmly about household matters, their presence radiating a calming energy in the otherwise chaotic space.
Not far away, Namikaze Minato and Uchiha Fugaku were immersed in the development of a new ninjutsu—an attempt to merge the Flying Thunder God with Susanoo for a devastating new technique. At the same time, Hyuga Tennin stood silently, observing Madara and Hashirama, perhaps still trying to process his unexpected summoning.
Orochimaru, ever the researcher, wandered the space with a gleam of interest in his eyes, undoubtedly plotting ways to study this unique realm. Uchiha Shisui, in his own world, carved the words "Will of Fire" into a nearby stone, a symbolic act that carried its own meaning.
Souta exhaled deeply. His psychic space was truly turning into something bizarre. Just what kind of future awaited him with such a collection of legendary figures?
With a sudden swish of movement, Namikaze Minato and Uchiha Fugaku appeared before him, their expressions serious yet tinged with anticipation.
"Souta," Minato began, his voice firm yet kind, "your uncle Fugaku and I are planning to visit Naruto and Sasuke tomorrow. What do you think? Kushina and Mikoto have been resurrected, and they're eager to see their sons."
Souta nodded without hesitation. "Of course, I can arrange it after the class divisions are finalized tomorrow. We'll find a good time for the meeting."
A smile of relief crossed Minato's face, while Fugaku, usually stoic, also showed a rare look of gratitude. "Thank you, Souta," Minato said sincerely. "This means a lot to our families."
"Hahahahahaha! What are you saying, Uncle Minato? Uncle Fugaku?" Souta grinned. "Naruto and Sasuke are like brothers to me! There's nothing I wouldn't do for them!"
Hearing this, Minato and Fugaku's smiles widened, their eyes gleaming with pride. It was a rare blessing for their sons to have someone like Souta watching over them.
However, after a moment, Minato's expression became more solemn. He glanced at Fugaku, then back at Souta. "There's something important I need to talk to you about," he said, his tone more serious than before.
Souta tilted his head slightly. "What is it, Uncle Minato?"
Minato took a deep breath. "During this time, I've been observing things carefully… and I've realized that the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, has changed."
Souta narrowed his eyes. "Changed? What do you mean?"
Minato crossed his arms, his expression darkening. "In his youth, the Third Hokage was truly an admirable shinobi. He led Konoha through turbulent times and was the pillar that held the village together. However, now… he is no longer that same man. He clings to power, and he is far too willing to compromise for the sake of stability rather than true progress."
Fugaku, standing beside him, nodded in agreement. "I know you plan to take control of Konoha's power structure eventually, Souta. I have no doubt you'll become Hokage, and perhaps even unify the ninja world one day… but I hope you'll consider a more peaceful approach."
Souta's eyes flickered with understanding. "Are you asking me to spare Sarutobi Hiruzen?"
Minato shook his head. "No, it's not just about him. It's about those around you." He gestured to the many powerful figures in the psychic space. "The First and Second Hokage are deeply loyal to Konoha. If you achieve your goals through excessive bloodshed, there's no guarantee they will stand by your side. Even if they acknowledge your ideals, they may oppose your methods."
Souta absorbed Minato's words carefully. The first Hokage, Senju Hashirama, had always placed Konoha above everything else, even his own life. The second Hokage, Senju Tobirama, despite his pragmatic nature, was still a man of unwavering conviction. If the takeover of Konoha became too violent, they might become obstacles rather than allies.
But was that really a problem for him? Even if Sarutobi Hiruzen died, he could simply be resurrected. The Edo Tensei ensured that death was no longer an absolute end. If Sarutobi Hiruzen knew this, would he willingly die, just to return in his prime? Hahahahahaha! The thought alone was ridiculous.
Souta found himself amused at the irony of the situation. He had always wondered what the young Sarutobi Hiruzen was like—how he fought, how he led. Maybe, in the end, he would get the chance to see it firsthand.
The truth was, Konoha was no longer the same. The original timeline had been shattered beyond recognition. With Orochimaru by his side, would Sarutobi Hiruzen even meet his original fate?
Even Souta, who had knowledge of the original events, could no longer predict the future with certainty. The story had changed too much.
Still, he smiled at Minato, appreciating his concern. "I understand, Uncle Minato. Thanks for the advice."
Minato studied his expression for a moment, then nodded. "Just remember, Souta, it's not just about power—it's about what you do with it."
Souta smirked. "I'll keep that in mind. But right now, we have other priorities. The Twelve Little Strongmen haven't fully matured yet… and Naruto and Sasuke's future will surpass anything we can imagine."
Minato and Fugaku exchanged glances before both nodded in agreement.
Tomorrow would be an important day. The past was gone. The future was uncertain.
And Souta Kazuki was at the center of it all.