Katahara slightly tilted his head, with a solemn and respectful air.
"I understand, Mito-sama. I deeply appreciate your kindness in helping us reach Uzushiogakure. It is an honor that you provide us with the coordinates and the letter for your father."
Tsunade, curious as always, looked up at her grandmother.
"Grandma, what kind of place is Uzushiogakure?"
Mito smiled gently, stroking her granddaughter's hair.
"Uzushiogakure is a legendary village, my child. It is the home of our Uzumaki clan. Its people are known for their extraordinary mastery of sealing techniques and for their longevity, a result of their powerful connection to chakra."
Hashirama, who had been watching the scene with a warm smile, turned his attention to Katahara.
"Katahara, when do you plan to depart? I assume you'll rest for a few days first."
"That's right. We would like to stay for a few days in Konoha, if that is permitted," replied Katahara, bowing slightly in respect.
"Of course, you may stay as long as you need," Hashirama replied with a kind smile.
Sensing the children's growing restlessness, Mito decided to intervene.
"Children, why don't you go outside and play? It will do you good."
Momonosuke, who had been nervously glancing at Katahara, looked at him for approval. Katahara gave a slight nod, and in an instant, Momo stood up enthusiastically, followed immediately by Kin'emon and Ashura Doji.
"They are Momonosuke's personal guardians," explained Katahara, noticing Mito and Hashirama's curious looks. "They made a promise to his late mother that they would protect him at all costs."
Mito regarded the two men with a soft and compassionate gaze.
"They are valuable and loyal guardians. I sincerely appreciate their commitment to protecting Momonosuke in his mother's name."
Kin'emon nodded seriously.
"It is an honor and a responsibility we assume with the utmost respect, Mito-sama."
Ashura Doji, with his imposing presence, added in a deep voice.
"We will protect Momonosuke with our lives if necessary."
Tsunade, always energetic and with a mischievous glint in her eyes, stepped forward.
"Let's go play outside then! Come on, Momonosuke, Kin'emon, Ashura Doji, let's all play together!"
Momonosuke, who had been nervous until then, gave a shy smile.
"Yes... let's have some fun," he said, trying to sound carefree, though his eyes couldn't stop glancing at Tsunade.
When the children left, Hashirama turned to Katahara, his expression growing more serious.
"Now that the children are gone... How did your clan end up in this situation? It's hard to believe only six survivors remain."
Katahara sighed, his demeanor reflecting a mix of sadness and pride.
"Our Metsudo clan was located near Kirigakure, though we were always isolated from the Village of the Mist. We are a warrior clan, but even so, our skills were not enough to stop two Tailed Beasts. I was returning to the village, accompanied by my personal guards. Momonosuke was just a baby at the time..."
Hashirama's eyes widened slightly at the mention of the Tailed Beasts.
"Two Tailed Beasts?"
Katahara nodded, his voice darkening as he recalled the events.
"When I arrived, my village was in ruins. I managed to drive back the two beasts, but it was too late... That happened many years ago, but the wound is still fresh."
Hashirama's face reflected a mix of awe and respect.
"Driving back two Tailed Beasts... that is an impressive feat."
Katahara seized the moment, carefully choosing his words.
"I managed to stop the Seven-Tails and the Six-Tails, but you captured several. That is an even greater achievement... Hashirama, this may sound presumptuous, but I would like to measure my strength against yours."
Before Hashirama could respond, Mito intervened with a serious expression.
"I don't think that would be appropriate. Both of you have been through much."
But Katahara, with a slight, challenging smile, persisted.
"On the contrary, Mito-sama. It would be an honor to test my strength against the man known as the 'God of Shinobi.'"
Hashirama let out a small laugh, both amused and understanding.
"I see you have a bold spirit, Katahara. I appreciate your honesty, but fighting isn't always the best way to prove our abilities. Here in Konoha, we value peace and cooperation. There's no need to demonstrate strength through violence."
Katahara, though slightly disappointed, lowered his head in respect.
"I understand, Hashirama-sama. My apologies if I was too direct in my desire to measure my strength."
"There's no need to apologize," Hashirama replied kindly. "It's natural to want to test oneself, but there are many ways to do so without resorting to combat. We can train together, share our skills, and learn from one another."
Katahara nodded, his expression relaxing.
"It would be an honor to train alongside you and learn from such a legendary shinobi as yourself."
Mito, observing the scene, smiled softly.
"Hashirama is a great teacher. I'm sure you'll enjoy training together."
"I believe so as well," Katahara said with a more relaxed smile.
"I'm glad to hear that," Hashirama added, returning to his friendly tone. "If you ever need help or information about Uzushiogakure, don't hesitate to ask. We are here to support you in any way you need."
The conversation continued amicably, strengthening the bonds between the clans. At the end, Katahara returned to his quarters with a satisfied smile.
"It won't be easy to face Hashirama, but at least now we have a clear path to Uzushiogakure," he mused aloud.
Momonosuke, who had been listening from the other side of the room, asked nervously.
"Master, don't you think lying about our origin is wrong?"
Katahara looked at him with a firm gaze.
"The ends justify the means, Momo. If we want to achieve our goals, we must use all the resources at our disposal, even if that means deception. Of course... there is one exception."
Momonosuke, sensing that his master knew more than he himself understood, grew nervous.
"Exception...? What are you talking about?"
Katahara gave a sly smile.
"I noticed how you were looking at Tsunade. Believe me, that girl will be a tough one to win over. If you truly wish to conquer her heart, you have a long road ahead... Now go and rest."
Before Momonosuke could respond, Dabi, one of Katahara's subordinates, appeared in the room.
"My lord."
"Speak," Katahara replied without taking his eyes off Momo.
"The high council is ready. They say they will depart as soon as they receive the information."
Katahara nodded, his expression becoming more serious.
"Perfect."
"5 Stones of Power: A Free Chapter"