Very sweet.

Hm, it seemed to me that the idea that they could still be needed enough to die on the battlefield was a ray of hope (for them)that they could still have a decent, meaningful death.
After spending their youth and health as dedicated shinobi it was almost like they were cheated, having to endure the ravages of old age on top of it. Coping and making the best of it because they are too honorable to do anything else - I find that to be the torturous, sad part.
DNR rocks, baby. And your story makes an excellent case for it! Well done.

I think Ryu Earth is right the end is sad, I don't like it to think they will die on the battlefield as old men.
But the story is GREAT! and I like your writting style :)

the ending was a little sad, but i still liked it!