New Dicovery (Fixed)

The mention of Madara serving someone shocked both Hashirama and Tobirama—especially Hashirama, who knew Madara better than anyone. He understood that Madara's personality would never allow him to willingly follow another person. For a moment, Hashirama considered the possibility that Madara was lying, but the look of unwavering devotion and loyalty on his face told a different story.

Hashirama seemed taken aback, then spoke thoughtfully: "To think the day would come when you'd willingly serve someone… He must truly be an extraordinary individual."

At that moment, a voice echoed from behind them: "Thank you for the compliment, First Hokage. It means a lot coming from you." They turned to see me—the man who had defeated Orochimaru, now standing calmly before them. Hashirama studied me intently, sensing my aura. After a brief pause, he remarked: "You possess the aura of a warrior, yet your presence commands respect like that of a king. Is this why Madara follows you? I wonder…"

Before I could respond, Tobirama interrupted, his sharp gaze fixed on my eyes. "Those eyes—they aren't Sharingan. What are they? And what exactly are your plans for us?"

I smiled, replying confidently: "I am Ajamu Alger Uchiha Ōtsutsuki, and these are the Rinne-Sharingan. As for your second question—to have you serve me, of course."

This revelation stunned them both. Tobirama reacted immediately, activating his chakra, which enveloped his body in a fierce blue aura. The room shook violently as cracks spread across the walls. With unbridled fury, he shouted: "I'll burn in hell before I serve an Uchiha!" Without hesitation, he lunged at me.

Of course, Madara stepped into his path, intercepting the attack with a powerful kick that sent Tobirama flying backward. Madara's expression burned with rage as he snarled: "HOW DARE YOU, INSECT, ATTACK MY KING!"

The two engaged in hand-to-hand combat, their movements blurring with speed and intensity. Meanwhile, Hashirama remained rooted in place, deep in thought. Sensing the escalating tension, he activated his own chakra and bellowed: "BOTH OF YOU, STOP FIGHTING THIS INSTANT!"

I signaled Madara to stand down, and though reluctant, Tobirama followed suit under his brother's stern glare. Turning to me, Hashirama asked earnestly: "You ask me to serve you, but why should I? What are your plans for this world? Madara follows you—that is why I'm giving you this chance."

'Impressive,' I thought to myself. 'Most would refuse outright out of pride alone. But not you, Hashirama Senju. You will make an excellent shadow.'

Smiling warmly, I responded: "I have no intention of harming the people of Konoha—if that's what concerns you. In fact, the current Hokage serves as my second-in-command, and his son is engaged to the Fire Daimyō's daughter."

My words sent shockwaves through both brothers. Tobirama opened his mouth to protest, but I cut him off firmly: "The universe is far larger than you imagine. My purpose is to protect worlds from existential threats, and for that, I need allies. Allow me to show you my story—I'll place you in a genjutsu so you can witness it firsthand."

I paused, waiting for their response. Hashirama locked eyes with Tobirama for a brief moment. Though Tobirama protested, saying, "No, brother, we cannot trust him," Hashirama stepped forward and nodded. Satisfied, I initiated the genjutsu, including Tobirama despite his resistance. After all, I didn't need permission—I merely sought to show respect for Hashirama's bond with his sibling.

Within the genjutsu, I revealed the moment Lusis explained the nature of worlds and the dangers they faced. I showed them my previous jobs, the battles I fought, and the responsibilities I bore to safeguard countless lives.

When they emerged from the genjutsu, it was clear that Hashirama believed every word he had seen. His demeanor suggested he was at least 80% convinced. Tobirama, however, remained skeptical, though his earlier hostility softened slightly, replaced by cautious consideration.

A few minutes passed in silence until Hashirama broke it, requesting to speak with Madara privately. I nodded, signaling Madara to accompany him. Left alone with Tobirama, I observed his tense posture and worried expression. If this were his real body, his muscles would surely ache from the strain of holding such a rigid stance.

Minutes later, Hashirama and Madara returned. Determination gleamed in Hashirama's eyes as he approached me alongside his brother. Once they stood close, Hashirama declared resolutely: "I'm in."

Tobirama erupted in outrage: "Are you insane, Hashirama?! How can you trust his word? I won't let you do this!" Activating his chakra once more, he charged at me. This time, however, Hashirama intercepted him, slapping his brother back with surprising force.

Hashirama: "It's my choice, brother. Those worlds and their people need protectors. It's a noble cause, and I've already lived, died, and chosen to help."

Tobirama screamed back: "You fool! It's not your responsibility to shoulder others' burdens! Your kind heart has always landed you in trouble, dragging you into problems that weren't yours to solve. If it weren't for me watching over you, you'd have caused even more chaos and met your end long ago!"

Hashirama smiled lovingly at his brother: "And I thank you for that. But this is my decision, and I wish to walk this path." Seeing the resolve etched on Hashirama's face, Tobirama sighed deeply, knowing there was no changing his brother's mind.

Tobirama: "Fine then. I'll walk this path with you."

Hashirama looked surprised, protesting gently: "You don't have to do this, brother. You shouldn't bear the weight of my choices."

Tobirama gave him a rare, affectionate look: "Stupid brother—it's always been my choice to carry the weight of your decisions. I'll always watch over you because you can't seem to look after yourself."

With mutual understanding, they nodded and walked side by side toward me. Standing together, they announced in unison: "We're both in."

Their display of brotherhood moved me deeply. I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt knowing that reviving and extracting them as shadows would enforce absolute loyalty to me. Still, their bond and Hashirama's selfless spirit left a lasting impression on me.

Just then, a system message appeared before me:

[Two Willing Shadow Soldiers Available. Shadow Extraction Available to Player. Please Place Your Hand on Their Bodies to Extract Shadows.]

I was genuinely surprised. Until now, I hadn't realized that willing targets could bypass the usual process of death and revival. Perhaps this was unique to situations where individuals volunteered freely—a scenario that likely hadn't occurred in Solo Leveling.

Smiling sincerely, I stepped forward and placed a hand on each of their shoulders, looking directly into their eyes. "It's an honor to have you two by my side," I said, my voice filled with gratitude.

"RISE."

// Hey everyone,

As you've read, this chapter took a different approach to acquiring shadows. I wanted to explore a method beyond simply reviving, killing, and reviving again. By showcasing characters choosing to join willingly, I aimed to highlight themes of trust, camaraderie, and shared purpose. Let me know what you think in the comments, and if you enjoyed it, please leave a review! //