fate

I made my way through the village of Konoha, running in the direction of the two largest chakra signatures, assuming they would be Hashirama and Mito. Before long, I noticed that the direction I was heading in seemed to lead to the Hokage Tower, but I pressed on regardless.

After a few minutes of running at a slower pace, I found myself on its roof. Konoha lay before my eyes, but this time from a different perspective. I took a moment to admire the view and rethink my plans for the nth time in the last few days. Everything was planned thoroughly, and I had to believe in myself; otherwise, how would I make it work?

After that brief respite, I extended my chakra towards Hashirama's and Mito's chakra to let them know I was there. I made my chakra as gentle as possible, hoping Kurama would relay that I was not coming in search of a battle. I sent another wave, this time to Kurama, letting him feel the urgency of the situation and using his name to bait him. And fall he did. Hashirama and Mito grew silent, awaiting my arrival.

Concealing myself fully to demonstrate my capabilities, I entered through the open window without making a sound. I took a moment to look at these living legends and assess their strength. 'Hashirama has grown weak, probably from his fight with Madara. Mito, though, looks full of energy... Kurama for ya, I guess?' I undid my concealing technique and greeted them.

"Hashirama Senju and Mito Uzumaki, a pleasure to meet both of you."

As I showed myself and spoke, Hashirama's gaze locked onto me. Mito turned around to see who had managed to enter the room without alerting them. Both of them sweat-dropped, realizing they hadn't sensed anyone inside the room. Hashirama furrowed his brows. 'He is strong. Pulling off such a feat and so boldly is unusual. Moreover, the only reason we knew he was there was because he told us beforehand. I must admit he is intriguing.'

He spoke, trying to mask his tension. "Greetings to you, stranger. I may not know if it's a pleasure as we know nothing about you. Would you mind explaining yourself?"

Seeing that both Hashirama and Mito were tense, even if they did a good job concealing it, I could sense their chakra building up, probably prepared for an unannounced attack. I decided to ease their tension.

"No need to be so tense. I am no enemy. Rather, I am someone who would rather see the world in peace, if I'd say so myself.". Exhaling loudly to make my words more impactful, I went to the window and gazed at the village. "I am not from here. I trust you not to tell anyone other than Tobirama about it. And when I say "here," I don't mean Konoha or any other region... No, I am not from this planet. The reason I am here, Hashirama, is to prevent a few things from happening. I may not be able to tell you exactly what, but all I can say is that I know of the future—or most of it, at the very least. It may sound implausible, but it is the very truth. And just as I know of the future, I know of the past as well. Here's the thing: I need your help, Hashirama, to protect Konoha and the world."

Hashirama and Mito grew stiff , the tension in the room stilled .

"Your words are ambitious and unprecedented. Claiming to know the future and not being from this planet—those are extraordinary claims. While I sense no immediate malice from you, trust is not easily given, especially with the safety of Konoha at stake. What exactly do you need from us, and why should we believe anything you say?"

Hashirama spoke , making it clear he couldn't trust the hunter immediately.

Mito on the same path as her husband added

"Your story is difficult to believe. If you truly know the future, you must understand why we are wary. What proof do you have of your knowledge? And why should we trust you when so much is at risk?"

The hunter stood still for a moment, pondering how best to prove his claims. He decided to demonstrate his knowledge of the past rather than the future.

"I won't speak of the future as it is important that events unfold as fate intends. However, I can tell you much about the past, more than you could have imagined. For this, Mito, I may need you to switch places with the fox inside you. He can confirm my claims."

Hashirama furrowed his brows, wondering, 'How would the fox confirm anything? Does he know something?'

Mito pondered for a moment before responding, "I need to discuss this with my husband. The decision is not mine alone to make."

The hunter acknowledged the truth in her statement and decided to give them some privacy. As he moved towards the door, he turned back to Mito and Hashirama.

"While I am away, you may want to think of a few questions about the past you'd like to ask me. I'll be right outside the door. Call me back in once you've made a decision."

With that, he left the room, closing the door behind him.

Mito turned to her husband, worry etched on her face. "What should we do, Hashi? If what he says is true and he does need our help, what can we do? And most of all, how can we know if he's telling the truth?"

Before Hashirama could respond, Kurama, the Kyubi, spoke directly to Mito's mind. 'Human, I want to talk to him.'

Mito stilled in place, her eyes widening in shock. Hashirama immediately noticed her reaction and rushed to her side. "Mito?! What's wrong? What happened?"

Mito shook off her daze and turned to her husband, her voice conflicted. "The Kyubi wants to talk with him. What should we do?"

Hashirama sighed in resignation and sat down. "We can only hope nothing bad happens. Even though I'm confident in our ability to defend ourselves, all of this seems too strange."

He sighed again, massaging his temples. "Alright, we'll call him back in, and you let the Kyubi take over for a few minutes."

Though Mito was not pleased with that outcome, she trusted her husband. After all, he wasn't the strongest for nothing.

Hashirama, resigned to the unusual situation, stood up and walked to the door. He opened it and called out, "You can come back in now."

The hunter re-entered the room, his expression calm and composed. Hashirama watched him carefully, still wary but determined to get to the bottom of this mystery.

"We've decided to proceed with your suggestion," Hashirama began. "Mito will let the Kyubi take over briefly so he can speak with you directly."

The hunter nodded, appreciating their willingness to take a risk. "Thank you. This will help confirm my intentions."

Mito took a deep breath, her face reflecting her inner conflict. "Alright, I'm ready. Let's do this."

She closed her eyes and focused inward. Slowly, her demeanor changed, and an intense aura filled the room. When she opened her eyes again, they were no longer Mito's; they glowed with the malevolent energy of the Kyubi.

The Kyubi, now in control of Mito's body, looked directly at the hunter. "So, you claim to know much about the past and the future," he rumbled, his voice a deep growl. "Prove it."

The hunter met the Kyubi's gaze without flinching. "Kyubi, you were once part of the Ten-Tails before being split into nine separate beings by Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, the Sage of Six Paths. Your true name is Kurama, though humans often call you the Nine-Tails."

Kurama's eyes widened slightly at the mention of his true name and origin. He listened intently as the hunter continued.

"I also know about the time you and your siblings were given names and entrusted to find your own paths. Your relationship with humans has always been tumultuous, shaped by their fear and your power."

Kurama growled softly, "You speak truths that few know. But how can we trust your intentions?"

The hunter nodded, understanding the skepticism. "I don't expect you to trust me immediately. But I'm here to prevent certain catastrophic events. And for that I need hashiramas help ."

Hashirama, observing the exchange, felt a flicker of hope. "Kurama ? Sou you have a name huh ? , do you believe him?"

Kurama was silent for a moment before responding. "You humans were never worthy or never tried to know about our origins .His knowledge is genuine. Whether his intentions are good or bad remains to be seen. But he is not lying about what he knows."

Hashirama nodded, turning back to the hunter with an expectant gaze. "What exactly do you know? And what do you need our help with?" he asked.

"I want to establish myself in Konoha. First, I would like to rest for some time, as I have been fighting for the past 1,500 years. I am tired. Once I have rested, my goal is to protect from the shadows. No one except the Hokage or those I deem worthy should know about me. I still need an official identity," the hunter replied.

Kurama and Hashirama digested the information the hunter provided. Suddenly, Hashirama's eyes widened. "You are over 1,500 years old?!"

Kurama also seemed to grasp the magnitude. "You are even older than me... Impressive, I must say."

Hashirama looked dejected. "You don't even seem older than 20, and yet I look so old... This is unfair."

The hunter smiled at the first Hokage's goofy attitude. "Trust me, Hashirama, it wasn't worth it... Not one bit," he spoke in a bitter tone.

*Timeskip* and pov change

After the long conversation I had with Hashirama and the Nine Tails, I was given a small plot of land between the Hokage Monument and the Hyuga Clan compound. I could use this plot however I liked. The first thing I did was ask Hashirama to use his Mokuton to build a house there, which he thankfully did. It looked like a normal two-story American house with enough room for one person to live comfortably. Once the house was built, I spent my time making my own furniture. I had a well-built kitchen and a huge bath, which I must admit was well-deserved and needed.

I bought myself some carpets, a bed, and other essentials. It looked like a true home. The most important task was placing seals everywhere around the compound. I did not want Zetsu, Obito, or anyone else to know that I lived there. After placing a lot of seals around the plot, I felt satisfied and decided to relax. I headed to my bathroom, which had a huge basin. I had designed it in a Japanese hot spring style so I could really relax.

"Aahhhhh, so good! Now I know what has been missing all my life, something like this. My god, it is heavenly good." Damn, I felt so good in there; no wonder I felt stiff throughout all these years. "Welp, it's time to go see Hashirama. Gotta see how he is doing with his illness and all."

*Scene change* Hokage Office:

I sat in front of Hashirama and whistled. "Damn, that doesn't look good at all. Well, Hashirama, to be frank with you, you don't have a lot of time left. At most a few months if you really push on." It was hard to see such a great man dying. I had lived here for a month and already considered him a friend. Truly regrettable.

Hashirama looked at me and smiled. "I could've guessed that. I will have to pass the mantle to my younger brother. Are you ready to meet him, Gorben?"

Ah, yes, that's right. I had chosen Gorben as my identity. It sounded better in my head, but what can I say? I couldn't use my original name as I had forgotten it. Strange how I didn't forget the Naruto story after 1,500 years.

"Hello? Gorben? Anyone there? Hey!" Hashirama grew frustrated as he saw me immersing myself in my thoughts. "Arrghhhh, here he goes again. How often does this have to happen?" He sighed in frustration and knocked me on the top of my head, sending me crashing to the ground.

"Ahhh! For fuck's sake, what was that for, Hashi?!" I screamed, rubbing the spot where he punched me.

"You zoned out. It's the only way to get you out of your musings." He huffed with fake anger. Seeing him like that made me smile. Hashirama was a good person, I could tell.

Seeing me smile, Hashirama shook his head. "So, about my little brother? Are you ready to meet him?" he asked again.

I sighed and looked out the window. "Yeah, just come to my home with him tonight. Oh, and bring Mito with you. I will cook, so no worries."

Hashirama nodded and licked his lips. "Hmm, truly a good idea, Gorben. The thing that really made me feel like you came from another world was your cooking."

I snorted. "You've got a stomach instead of a brain, don't you? Whatever. Do tell your brother that secrecy is warranted as he is the next Hokage, and tell him about my origins. I don't have the energy to explain."

Hashirama gave me a deadpan look and muttered something like, "fucking Nara," but I couldn't care less. "Alright, see you later, Hashirama. And do tell him I would asses his strength , at least he should be prepared to get his ass handed to him ."

With that, I headed toward my house, admiring the scenery of this village, still pretty small compared to what it would be in a few years into the future.

*Scene Change*

I stood in the kitchen, finishing up the last dishes. I had prepared a feast: tempura, sushi, meat for a Korean BBQ, German-style duck, crème brûlée, schnitzel burgers, and pizza. They were in for a treat, I have to say.

*Tak tak tak*

'Ah, here they are.' "Coming! Wait a moment, everyone!" I left everything as it was and rushed to the door to open it.

Hashirama greeted me with a hug, which I returned. "Hey Gorben, wow it smells good! What did you prepare this time?" he asked, drooling.

I snickered. "You'll see. Get inside and let me greet the others."

He got inside and made his way toward the living room where we would eat. I turned in Hashirama's direction and spoke loudly, "Don't touch the food, you numbnut. It's for everyone, so wait patiently and just sit!"

I turned to Mito and greeted her with an apologetic smile. "Hey Mito, just as beautiful as last time. Come in and please hold your husband back; I'm scared we won't have any food left otherwise."

She laughed it off. "No, he will behave today. I told him not to, so he will listen... hopefully."

She got inside and left me alone with Tobirama. "So... Tobirama Senju, Hashi has spoken highly of you. I'm Gorben, pleased to meet you," I said, stretching out my hand.

Tobirama looked at me with a conflicted look, not sure of what to do. "Tobirama... likewise, Gorben."

I grabbed his hand and shook it. "Come on in. If we stay any longer here, your brother will probably have eaten everything."

He nodded and followed me inside. Once inside the house, I told Tobirama to take off his sandals and get to the living room. But just as I saw the sandals, something occurred to me. "Why are there only two pairs of footwear?"

Tobirama, confused, looked toward where the sandals were and observed. "Those are only Mito-san's sandals."

I groaned and rushed in a fury toward the living room while shouting, "Hashirama, you take your sandals off before I make you eat them!"

Hashirama, surprised to see me rushing toward him with a fist ready to make him even more sick than he already was, stood straight and sweated profusely. "Ah, sorry, sorry, Gorben. I will do just that right now!" He hurried toward the shoe rack.

Mito laughed, amused at the situation, while Tobirama stood confused at the entrance of the living room. I massaged my temples and sighed. "*Sigh~* I swear he will be the death of me one of these days."

Mito looked at me and said, "How do you think it is for me as his wife, huh?"

I rolled my eyes and went toward the kitchen to get everything. I came back, and thus started the feast.

As we all settled into the meal, the conversation flowed easily. Hashirama, as expected, was delighted by the food and kept praising each dish with an enthusiasm that was both flattering and amusing. Mito was more reserved but equally appreciative, and Tobirama observed everything with a keen eye, clearly still evaluating the situation.

As we chatted and ate, Tobirama finally spoke up, his tone serious and direct. "Gorben, is it true what my brother says? That you're really from the future?"

I paused, setting down my chopsticks and meeting his gaze. "Yes, Tobirama. I am from the future."

Tobirama's eyes narrowed, his analytical mind clearly at work. "Can you prove it?"

I leaned back, considering how best to address his skepticism without revealing too much. "I can't give you detailed accounts of future events because it could alter the course of history in ways we can't predict. But I can tell you things about the past that only someone with intimate knowledge of the timeline would know."

Hashirama, sensing the tension, interjected, "Tobirama, he already told us things only the fox could verify. You should trust him."

Tobirama wasn't convinced. "Stories from the past can be researched and learned. I need something more concrete."

I nodded, understanding his position. "Fair enough. Ask me something specific, something only you and Hashirama would know."

Tobirama thought for a moment, then said, "Tell us about the night our father died."

I took a deep breath. "It was during a skirmish with the Uchiha. Butsuma Senju was ambushed. He managed to take down several of his attackers before succumbing to his injuries. Hashirama was there, holding him as he passed. Your father told Hashirama to protect the clan and take care of you and your siblings. He also mentioned that he regretted not seeing peace in his lifetime."

The room fell silent. Hashirama's eyes grew misty with the memory, and Tobirama's stern expression softened slightly. "That's... accurate," Tobirama admitted.

Mito, sensing the weight of the moment, added gently, "Gorben has proven he knows things that no outsider could."

Tobirama sighed, nodding slowly. "Alright, Gorben. I will give you the benefit of the doubt for now. But know this: if you pose any threat to Konoha, I will not hesitate to act."

I smiled, appreciating his caution. "Fair enough, Tobirama. I wouldn't expect anything less from the future Second Hokage."

Tobirama's eyes widened slightly at the mention of his future title, but he nodded, a sign of reluctant acceptance. With that, the atmosphere lightened, and we continued our meal, the bond of trust slowly beginning to form.

As we continued our meal, the conversation turned to lighter topics, and for a while, it seemed like we could simply enjoy each other's company. But Tobirama, ever the pragmatic thinker, couldn't completely set aside his concerns.

He looked up from his plate, fixing me with a serious gaze. "Gorben, if what you say is true, and I do become the Second Hokage, is there anything specific I should prepare for?"

The table fell silent, everyone waiting for my response. I set down my chopsticks, taking a moment to gather my thoughts. "Yes, Tobirama. There are challenges ahead. War is approaching, and it will test Konoha in ways you can't yet imagine."

Hashirama's expression turned grave. "War? After everything we've done to secure peace?"

I nodded. "The peace you've worked so hard to establish is fragile. There are forces at play that will seek to disrupt it. The Second Hokage will face many threats, both external and internal. The survival and prosperity of Konoha will depend on strong leadership and unity among the clans."

Tobirama's face hardened with determination. "What kind of war? With whom?"

I sighed, choosing my words carefully. "It's not just one war, but a series of conflicts. The world will be plunged into a state of continuous turmoil. Clans will rise and fall, alliances will shift, and many lives will be lost. You must be prepared to make difficult decisions and sacrifices to protect the village."

Mito looked worried. "Is there anything we can do to prevent this?"

"Unfortunately, some events are inevitable," I said. "But being aware of the possibility can help you mitigate the damage. Strengthen your alliances, fortify Konoha's defenses, and focus on training the next generation. They will be crucial in the battles to come."

Hashirama, ever the optimist, tried to find a silver lining. "Is there hope for lasting peace?"

I gave him a small smile. "Yes, there is always hope. The path to peace is long and arduous, but it is possible. You've already taken the first steps by founding Konoha. The seeds of peace have been planted; it's up to you and future generations to nurture them."

Tobirama nodded, his resolve clear. "Thank you for the warning, Gorben. I will do everything in my power to protect Konoha and ensure its future."

With that, the conversation gradually shifted back to lighter topics, but the weight of the future lingered in the air. We all knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but together, we would face whatever challenges came our way.

I took a moment to think ' it's no problem if I tell him about the war right? It will happen anyway and telling him might strengthen konoha a bit more.'

After the meal, we decided to head to the training grounds for a little test I had prepared—a one-on-one fight between Tobirama and myself. It was important to gauge his abilities firsthand and also to demonstrate my own skills.

The training ground was quiet as we arrived, the sun beginning to set, casting long shadows across the area. Hashirama, Mito, and I stood off to the side while Tobirama readied himself in the center. He looked determined, eager to prove himself.

Hashirama clapped a hand on my shoulder. "Are you sure about this, Gorben? Tobirama is strong."

I nodded. "It's necessary. He needs to see the difference between our abilities and understand what's coming."

Mito watched with a mixture of concern and curiosity. "Just don't hurt him too much, Gorben."

I smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, Mito. This is just a test."

Tobirama took his stance, eyes locked onto mine. "I'm ready."

Before the fight began, I gave him a piece of advice. "Tobirama, use your shadow clones at the start. It will give you an initial advantage and help you understand your opponent's movements."

He nodded, taking the advice to heart. The moment the battle started, Tobirama created several shadow clones, all moving with incredible speed, launching a series of kunai and shuriken towards me. I didn't even flinch. Before he could even process what had happened, I had vanished from his sight.

In the blink of an eye, I reappeared behind him, my fingers lightly touching his cheek. "It's over."

I was grinning like a madman , the look on his face was of everything but the calm and collected tobirama we've seen so far

Tobirama froze, realizing he had been completely outmatched. He turned slowly, a mix of frustration and respect in his eyes. "How did you...?"

I smiled. "There's a lot you still need to learn. But don't worry, you'll get there."

Hashirama and Mito walked over, both clearly impressed. Hashirama clapped his hands together. "Incredible, Gorben. You truly are something else."

Mito nodded in agreement. "Tobirama, this just shows you how much more there is to learn. Don't be discouraged."

Tobirama, though clearly frustrated, nodded. "I understand. Thank you for the lesson, Gorben."

I patted his shoulder. "You'll get stronger, Tobi. This is just the beginning. Remember, always look for ways to gain the upper hand at the start of a fight. Shadow clones are ideal for that , instead of going head on against you could've created a distraction and replaced yourslef with a shadow clone , you would've had more intel on your enemy through that ."

Tobirama sent me a glare for some reason.

With that, we headed back, the atmosphere a mix of camaraderie and determination. Tobirama had seen a glimpse of the power he needed to aspire to, and I had shown him the vast potential that lay ahead. It was a step towards preparing him for the challenges to come.

After the brief but enlightening fight, we all headed back toward the village. The air was cool, and the night was settling in, casting a serene glow over Konoha. The training had been intense, but it had also brought a sense of camaraderie.

As we reached the edge of the training grounds, Hashirama turned to me with a broad smile. "Thank you for the lesson tonight, Gorben. It was truly eye-opening. You've given us a lot to think about."

Mito nodded in agreement, her expression soft. "Indeed. And thank you for the wonderful meal. It was a delight. Please take care of yourself, Gorben."

I smiled back at them. "It was my pleasure. Thank you for trusting me. Have a good night, both of you."

Tobirama looked at me with a newfound respect. Though the fight had been brief, it had been enough to show him what he needed to work on. "I'll remember your advice, Gorben. Thank you."

I nodded at him. "Good. Keep pushing yourself, Tobi. You're destined for great things."

With that, they each headed towards their respective homes. Hashirama and Mito walked hand in hand, a comforting sight. Tobirama lingered for a moment, watching them go before turning to follow.

As I made my way back to my own home, I felt a sense of accomplishment. It was the beginning of something new, a small but significant step in shaping the future. I glanced up at the stars, feeling a mix of hope and determination.

Back at my house, I settled into my newly made furniture, the silence of the night wrapping around me. It was a rare moment of peace, a chance to reflect on the events of the day and the days to come.

"Good night, Konoha," I whispered to the quiet village, feeling a sense of belonging for the first time in a long while.

With a deep breath, I closed my eyes, and the smile that was on my face the whole time slowly fell , " it's difficult to act like I still have emotions ... I have to change this."

*Time lapse*

Time passed, and Hashirama's health deteriorated more quickly than any of us wanted to admit. Despite his indomitable will and the best efforts of the village's medical shinobi, it was clear his time was running out. I watched helplessly, knowing that I couldn't interfere with fate. Some things had to play out as they were meant to.

Hashirama's once vigorous demeanor faded. The robust laughter and tireless energy were now replaced with a persistent cough and a weary smile. The village felt the shift, a palpable anxiety hanging in the air. It was hard not to be moved by the sight of such a great man succumbing to the inevitable.

Despite the pain and the growing weakness, Hashirama continued to fulfill his duties as Hokage, showing a strength of spirit that inspired everyone around him. Mito was always by his side, her presence a constant source of support and love. Tobirama, ever the stoic, took on more responsibilities, preparing himself for the mantle he would soon have to bear.

One evening, as I visited the Hokage's office, Hashirama looked up from his desk with a wan smile. "Gorben, my friend, it seems my time is almost up."

I nodded. "Yes, Hashirama. But you've done more than enough for this village. Your legacy will live on."

He chuckled weakly. "I hope so. Tobirama is ready, and I trust him to lead Konoha well. But promise me something, Gorben. Promise me you'll continue to watch over this village, even from the shadows."

I clasped his hand firmly. "I promise, Hashirama. I'll protect Konoha with everything I have."

As I left the office that night, I couldn't shake the heavy feeling in my chest. Watching a friend fade away, knowing you could do nothing to stop it, was a cruel reminder of the limitations even someone like me faced.

The days turned into weeks, and Hashirama's condition worsened. The village prepared for the inevitable transition of power. I focused on my duties, ensuring that my presence remained a secret to all but a select few.

One night, as I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, the reality of the situation hit me hard. Despite all my power and knowledge, I couldn't change everything. Some events had to unfold naturally, no matter how painful they were.

I closed my eyes, whispering a silent vow to the night. "I'll keep my promise, Hashirama. Konoha will be safe."

With that, I drifted off to sleep, knowing that the days ahead would be challenging but resolute in my commitment to protect the village.

_________________________________________

A new chapter , took me some time but it's finally here .

Do give a review and vote , I'd appreciate it.