Konoha New Era : Third Hokage Ascends

(Edited)

After announcing that Uchiha Kagami had become his disciple, Tobirama revealed the rest of his disciples one by one. As expected, Sarutobi Hiruzen, whose fame had already spread throughout the village, was on the list. Shimura Danzo, his childhood rival, was also included.

Although Akimichi Torifu wasn't from a prominent clan, his calm demeanor and exceptional strength earned him recognition. However, the other three selections were more surprising.

Masaki, despite being from a small clan, had gained some fame at the Konoha Academy. His reputation had grown further after the First Hokage personally decided that he and Uchiha Kagami would have their weddings on the same day. This gave him some notoriety in the village, and considering his performance at the Academy, people could accept his selection. However, the other two chosen disciples raised eyebrows.

Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu were born to civilian families without any notable ninja heritage. Both of their families were wiped out in disputes the year before Konohagakure's unification during the late Warring States period. Like Masaki, they were orphans rescued by Hashirama.

Despite their lack of formal ninja training, both Homura and Koharu were inspired by the heroism of the First Hokage. They requested to become ninjas, and after receiving basic education, their talents began to emerge. They were eventually recognized and allowed to enter the Konoha Academy under the sponsorship of a ninja clan. However, their sponsors weren't as influential as the Fumori clan, leaving them essentially still civilians.

Though lacking a clan legacy, Homura and Koharu showed exceptional promise as ninjas. Their intelligence and potential were clear, which led to their selection as Tobirama's disciples, despite some resentment from other clan heirs who considered themselves more deserving.

For their part, Homura and Koharu were overjoyed. They were grateful for the opportunity to learn under the Senju and had never imagined becoming direct disciples of Tobirama. Filled with gratitude, they swore never to disappoint Hashirama and Tobirama.

With the discipleship decisions made, attention turned to the upcoming weddings of Kagami and Masaki, a top priority in the village.

After receiving the Hokage's endorsement, Uchiha Kagami managed to quell any opposition within the Uchiha clan. A few days later, he officially inherited the position of clan patriarch. As leader of one of the most prominent families in Konoha, his wedding would be a grand event. Hashirama also saw this as an opportunity to highlight the close relationship between the village and the Uchiha, further increasing the wedding's significance.

Meanwhile, Masaki's wedding would take place on the same day as Kagami's, which drew attention, albeit on a smaller scale. Masaki was unsure how to feel about the situation.

Initially, Hashirama wanted the two weddings to be held together, but the conservative nature of the Uchiha clan made that impossible. Reluctantly, Hashirama abandoned the idea.

Despite this, Hashirama did not overlook Masaki's wedding. Given his close ties to Rimi, he took it upon himself to ensure the preparations were handled seriously. Unfortunately, due to his duties, Hashirama had to attend Uchiha Kagami's wedding, so Tobirama was left to preside over Masaki's ceremony.

In the days leading up to the wedding, Masaki and Rimi were occupied with the preparations. Even though Masaki was typically calm, he found himself feeling nervous. Soon, he would have a family, and the responsibilities weighed heavily on him.

He constantly worried about whether he could protect his clan. The looming shadow of the First Ninja War hung over him, and with the wedding approaching, those concerns grew even larger.

Still, Masaki kept these worries to himself. Seeing Rimi so happy and full of anticipation for their future, he couldn't bear to trouble her with his anxieties. He buried his fears deep within and focused on the wedding preparations.

Finally, the wedding day arrived. Uchiha Kagami's wedding was a grand affair, attended by ninjas from all over. It was more of a grand celebration than a mere ceremony.

In comparison, Masaki's wedding was much simpler. Fortunately, out of respect for Uchiha Kagami and Hashirama, many prominent ninjas still sent representatives. Though they were of lower status than those at Kagami's wedding, Masaki was content. He knew that, given his clan's position, even this level of attention was a blessing, thanks largely to Kagami.

In addition to Tobirama presiding over the wedding, Senju Tōka, the master of illusion and Rimi's mentor, also attended. To Tōka, Rimi was like her own daughter, so she took an active role in overseeing the ceremony.

"Fumori, you'd better take good care of Rimi. I practically raised her. If you two have any problems, resolve them peacefully. If I hear you've mistreated her, you'll answer to me," Tōka warned Masaki before the ceremony began. Despite Masaki's calm demeanor, she knew of his past impulsiveness and wanted to ensure he stayed on the right track.

"Of course, Tōka-sama," Masaki replied respectfully.

"Good," Tōka said, satisfied with his answer. She hoped Masaki would truly bring Rimi happiness.

Once all the guests had arrived, the wedding began. Following ancient customs, Masaki and Rimi carefully went through each part of the ceremony. The atmosphere was solemn and dignified, and in the presence of the gods, the two swore to spend the rest of their lives together.

After the ceremony, Masaki took Rimi's hand. Her natural beauty seemed to shine even more on this day, and Masaki's heart stirred. From this day forward, Rimi would no longer carry the Senju name. She was now Fumori Rimi, his wife.

"Rimi..." Masaki said softly.

"Hm?" Rimi looked up at him, feeling his intense gaze. Blushing, she quickly looked away. "What is it?"

"I'll make sure you're happy. I swear it," Masaki vowed solemnly. After the wedding, his resolve to survive the First Ninja War and protect his family became stronger than ever.

"You've said that several times now," Rimi replied, though it was clear she was happy.

Masaki smiled and led Rimi home. The days that followed were filled with happiness. If not for the looming future, Masaki would have wished to live like that forever.

A few days later, Uchiha Kagami visited with his new wife. Kagami's wife, also a member of the Uchiha clan, was a gentle woman with long black hair. She complemented Kagami well. During the visit, Rimi and Kagami's wife bonded quickly, and they soon began talking about their husbands' plans to marry off their children.

Despite the joy of their weddings, both Masaki and Kagami knew that as ninjas, they could not indulge in happiness for long. After the festivities ended, they would begin their training under Tobirama's guidance.