The Successor

Hagoromo chooses Ashura as his successor, to the surprise of all. Indra asks why Hagoromo did not chose him. Hagoromo received word the village Indra was sent to is almost destroyed, and asks how Indra performed his task. He responds he did the same as Ashura, giving the village water and destroying what was left of the God Tree, and that he did it alone. Hagoromo reveals that after Indra left, the villagers began fighting over the water rights, almost destroying the village. Hagoromo commends Indra for his Sharingan, and asks him to support Ashura in upholding Ninshuu. Indra leaves, followed by two of people loyal to him. That night, by themselves, Indra's followers think they should appeal to Hagoromo. Indra thanks them, and kills them. A feast is held to celebrate Ashura's appointment. Taizou and Kanna discuss Indra and Ashura. Ashura questions Hagoromo's decision, and Hagoromo explains how Indra's Sharingan has impaired his ability to understand others, unlike Ashura. Hagoromo asks Ashura to join forces with Indra, and imparts Ashura with power. Indra attacks the celebration, denouncing love as the way to shape Ninshuu, seeing cooperation as a sign of weakness. Hagoromo and Ashura note his Mangekyou Sharingan. Indra attacks, but Ashura is able to withstand his attack, surprising him. Indra uses Susanoo. Hagoromo and the other Ninshuu followers join Ashura. Ashura blocks one of his attacks with Truth-Seeking Balls. After sharing of their chakra, Ashura begins using Wood Style, and defeats Indra. Indra escapes, vowing to never acknowledge Ashura. Hagoromo recounts how Indra began a sect that emphasizes power, and how Black Zetsu tampered with the Stone Tablet he left behind to warn about the Sharingan. As he dies, Hagoromo tells Ashura of Indra's visit the night before, when he vowed to reincarnate until love-led Ninshuu ceases to be. Hagoromo finishes his story to the four Hokage.