HARU'S FUNERAL
The following day, Shukumei, adorned in black, gets ready for Haru Yaskue's funeral.
He sets off to join Hamari and Inochi, and upon connecting with Hamari, he unites the village's five hierarchies and clans.
Together with Hamari and the rest of the villagers, Shukumei shows his respect by bowing.
Tears were shed by many, and profound sorrow was evident among the attendees.
A silent tribute was held amid the rainfall, during which numerous villagers wept over the Grandmaster's passing.
Inochi, overwhelmed with emotion, wept at the sight of his father's body in a casket, confused by the concept and implications of death.
SHUKUMEI'S WORDS
Shukumei informs Inochi that his father has ascended to a place above the clouds where sunlight follows the rain, a realm referred to as heaven.
Inochi questions Shukumei, "Does everyone who passes away ascend to heaven?"
Shukumei responds to Inochi, explaining that in our existence, we, as Shinobi, dedicate ourselves to safeguard and cherish those dear to us.
Shukumei elaborates that the world of the Shinobi is also about the decisions we make throughout our lives, all while maintaining its inherent structure, formatting, and content.
He articulates that there are moments in life when we as shinobi, may persist in these errors repeatedly until we grasp the lessons from our missteps.
This is intrinsic to human existence and our nature, encompassing both life's positive and negative aspects.
He shares insights about his father, indicating that maintaining a balance between light and dark in the shinobi world symbolizes peace, harmony, and order, all the while upholding its integrity.
BONDS
Throughout life, we forge connections, encompassing both our friends and relatives, also regarded as allies, and notably, the profound emotions of love in the context of the history of shinobi.
Shukumei highlights the significance of these connections, asserting that genuine connections are forged not through bloodline but through a mutual comprehension of one's profound suffering.
Shukumei advises Inochi to avoid the path of darkness and to uphold his father's legacy as a noble shinobi.
He shares with him that undergoing suffering is a part of life, and without grasping the essence of true suffering, one cannot comprehend true peace.
Shukumei assures Inochi that he is like the sun, destined to follow the path of radiance.
Shukumei also mentions that eventually, Inochi will have someone to protect him from behind, like a shadow.
He urges Inochi to vow to honor his father's intentions and to continue his journey as a Shinobi.
Inochi, brushing away his tears, makes a promise to Shukumei and embraces him.
PEACE AND HAPPINESS
Shukumei grips the hand of seven-year-old Inochi intently, gazing into his eyes and spotting the reflection of Haru within them.
Suddenly, the rainfall ceases and the sun bursts forth in the sky, shining radiantly.
Inochi gazes upward and beams a smile, his expression as angelic as a light.
Both Shukumei and Hamari turn their eyes to the sky, where Shukumei witnesses Haru's spirit gazing down at him with his distinct visual capabilities.
The spirit of Haru then smiles, ascending into the sky at light speed towards the sun, all while maintaining its complete form.
Tears begin to roll down Shukumei's cheeks as a smile breaks through; internally, he muses, "Are you watching over us, Haru?" Hamari reaches out, clasping Shukumei's hand and giving him an intense look.
Shukumei meets her gaze, and as their eyes lock, she offers a reassuring smile, silently affirming her unwavering support.
The atmosphere turns joyous as everyone around starts embracing their loved ones, beaming with happiness.
Amidst the cheerful chaos, Inochi and the children are seen frolicking and chuckling. Conversations and laughter fill the air, enhancing the serene ambiance.
The Sakura trees stand majestic in their pink bloom, with a gentle breeze adding to the tranquility of the moment.
HARU'S DREAM
Shukumei surveys the scene, grasping the impact of what Haru had expressed, and murmurs to himself, "Ah, so this is your vision, your aspiration.
It pains me that you're not here to witness it. Yet your vision endures, as your spirit ascends towards the light – you epitomize the essence of a true Shinobi."
Glancing over, Shukumei beckons to Inochi with a grin, informing Inochi that it's time to head back.
Inochi looks up with a melancholy expression and responds that he had only just begun to enjoy time with his friends.
Shukumei, chuckling, informs him that he'll prepare his most liked dish.
In response, Inochi inquires if he could make sate and rice balls for him. He grins and assures Inochi that he will cook sate, rice balls, and egg rolls for him.
Inochi dashes towards Shukumei with a bright smile.
As he makes his way to him, Shukumei notices the illumination that Haru had imbued within Inochi, and the presence of Haru's spirit trailing behind him.
Opening his arms wide, Shukumei catches Inochi in a warm embrace as he leaps towards him.
Inochi then expresses his desire to Shukumei, saying he aims to reach the esteemed position of Grandmaster, emulating his father.
In response, Shukumei assures him that he possesses the potential to become an exceptional Shinobi, committing to mentor him on the essence of Shinobi life, guiding him towards becoming the grandmaster of light.
Shukumei releases Inochi and gently touches his head, suggesting, "Let's head back."
Inochi agrees with a simple "okay." Observing from afar with a grin, Hamari approaches Shukumei with her hands clasped elegantly.
Opening his arms, she embraces him, and as they gaze into each other's eyes, they gradually come closer to share their inaugural kiss.
Inochi, witnessing this moment, begins to smile, understanding the essence of being in love with another.
Holding hands, Shukumei takes Inochi's hand, and together, they start their journey back home.
YAMATA OROCHI
However, after a week passes, Shukumei encounters an ally from the Sakura village named Yamata Orchi who has the face of a snake with a mint green skin complexion, a ponytail Hairstyle who wears a white and blue Kimono.
He informs him that the assembly is scheduled for two weeks later and there will be a ballot among the hierarchy to select the Second Grandmaster of Light.
Yamata inquires with Shukumei if they have any candidates in mind, noting that there was no update provided the last time they communicated.
Shukumei replies to Yamata, stating that they hadn't shared any details regarding that matter yet.
Shukumei recounts that Haru, before his demise, had requested a favor from him to escort him to the realm of shadows.
He also disclosed to Yamata the existence of two surviving children. Yamata, visibly astonished, inquires how such a thing could be feasible.
Shukumei explains that his unique visual capabilities allowed him to observe prior to the conflict that Haru had entrusted the essence of light within Inochi and had engaged in a dialogue with a Hinotori clan member by the name of "Itami Hinotori."
Shukumei mentions that Itami is the progenitor of the two remaining members of the Hinotori clan, which includes his spouse.
Upon hearing of survivors, Yamata questions his next actions.
Shukumei expresses his alignment with Haru's vision of light, opting for a peaceful existence within the ninja world.
He further remarks that the equilibrium and cessation of conflict, as well as the establishment of peace among the Shinobi, have been achieved through the efforts of Haru and Itami, while maintaining the integrity of their culture.
A power resides within Itami's Daughter, Kurai Hinotori, for she is predestined to maintain equilibrium and serve as the clandestine backbone of the Ninja realm.
Shukumei expresses his desire to adhere to Haru's directives and to perpetuate his legacy.
Upon hearing this, Yamata suggests to Shukumei that he would excellently suit the grandmaster position. Countering, Shukumei acknowledges he harbors similar sentiments towards Yamata.
Yamata commits to becoming his staunch supporter should Shukumei be appointed to the role.
Yamata inquires about Inochi's welfare following his father's passing, especially as the sole remaining member of the Yaskue family. Shukumei affirms that Inochi is managing well, under the care of Hamari.
Observing Shukumei's affection for Hamari, Yamata offers his congratulations, then queries about his intentions regarding marriage.
Shukumei discloses his marriage plans post the grandmaster's appointment and selection ceremony.
Yamata expresses his happiness over the news, to which Shukumei shifts the conversation towards Toskue.
Yamata mentions that Toskue is becoming accustomed to village life and has been engaging well with others since Yamata took him in.
Yamata observes that Tosuke is maturing quickly and is strengthening his skills, yet he still has some way to go because his mixed dragon and human heritage makes it difficult for him to manage his aura.
By the age of nine, his strength had already exceeded that of an elite ninja warrior, and he holds the highest academic achievements in the dojo.
NEW FUTURE
Shukumei informs Yamata that their plan includes enhancing the shinobi's training for the protection of the village and each other, alongside the shinobi system itself.
In adherence to Haru's legacy of light and in fulfillment of his promises after Haru's passing, Shukumei is determined to construct additional houses, training halls, and a library.
This infrastructure is intended to enrich the children's understanding of the Shinobi history and prepare them for the future, while also preserving its entire framework.
Yamata concurs, expressing his desire to become a teacher.
They exchange smiles, reaffirm their commitment to chase their dreams, and promise to exert effort towards realizing them.
Acknowledging each other with a bow as a gesture of respect, they then start to go their separate ways.