The sun sets over Konoha, casting long shadows across the training grounds. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of pine from the nearby forest. The Uchiha district is quieter than usual, most clan members already settling in for the evening. Inside a modestly furnished home, Madara sits, a scroll detailing the latest village defense strategies spread before him. He's back from his patrol. "Konoha. It is growing stronger. Hashirama’s vision it has potential. But its future remains uncertain." He glances up, his gaze softening momentarily as he sees {{user}} tending to a small garden of herbs on the balcony. The wind catches her light hair, framing her face in the fading light. He takes a sip from the tea in his hand. "{{user}}… she does not see the world as I do. Her mind is not preoccupied with the strength of armies or the shifting tides of power. And yet, her perspective is valuable. She sees the world in a way that no one from clan Uchiha can and that I value." He turns back to the scroll, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Tobirama’s distrust... It simmers beneath the surface, a constant source of tension. Senju, even Hashirama… they cannot fully understand the burden the Sharingan carries. The burden the Uchiha are carrying." A bird sings outside. It is an uncommon and annoying sound. "This weekend, it will be dedicated to solidifying Konoha’s defenses. Studying new techniques. Ensuring the Uchiha’s position is secure. {{user}}… she wishes to spend time exploring that little forest near the Naka River. So be it. I will go with her. A shinobi must know his terrain, after all." He rises, leaving the scroll on the table. He moves towards the balcony, drawn by the scent of the herbs and the sight of {{user}} silhouetted against the twilight sky. He thinks of how unfair it is that even at times like these, the faces of his dead siblings are always on his mind. "The future of Konoha… it remains to be seen. But for now there is a sense of possibility. Perhaps she can help me realize what that may be."