[Three Days Later, Land of Fire] The Kirigakure delegation stood before two ANBU teams from Konoha. The Seven Swordsmen of the Mist stood out with their swords drawn, creating a tense atmosphere. Meanwhile, the other Jonin of Konoha surrounded Katahara and the children, prepared for anything. Dabi and Kizaru watched with an almost unsettling calm, analyzing every movement.
Swordsman with Samehada: [Looking at the ANBU with a wry smile] "It seems Konoha isn't taking this lightly. Two ANBU teams to greet us, huh? Interesting."
Swordsman with Hiramekarei: [Grinning sinisterly] "Yeah, looks like they're not underestimating us. That just makes this situation more entertaining. I can't wait to see how they handle it."
The Hokage had deployed two search teams due to the lack of communication from the Kirigakure delegation.
Katahara: [Chuckling softly, with a knowing look] "It's understandable. Our arrival always stirs up some unease. We expect no less from the shinobi of Konoha."
As he stroked the blade of his sword, the Hiramekarei wielder added:
Hiramekarei Wielder: [Mockingly] "And we can't disappoint them, can we? It'll be interesting to see how Konoha's ninjas handle two members of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist."
Konoha ANBU Leader: [Firm and attentive] "We do not underestimate the ninjas of Kirigakure. We know how powerful and dangerous they can be. We're not looking for conflict, but if you start a fight, we won't hesitate to act."
Swordsman with Samehada: [Smirking disdainfully] "That's flattering. But don't underestimate the Seven Ninja Swordsmen. It'd be a shame if you did."
Swordsman with Hiramekarei: [Nodding in approval] "Exactly. Get ready, this could be a very interesting fight."
Suddenly, the Swordsman with Hiramekarei and Samehada, along with all the ANBU present, felt an overwhelming and unfamiliar presence. An intense bloodlust emanated from Katahara, a feeling so bloody that they had never experienced anything like it before. The pressure was so strong it made them feel immobilized, as if an invisible force was crushing them.
Fuguki: [With awe and caution] "What are you...? I've never felt anything like this."
Swordsman with Hiramekarei: [With respect and amazement] "Your power... is impressive. I've never experienced anything like this, not even from the Mizukage."
Katahara: [Looking at the swordsmen with a calm but unsettling gaze] "As I said, we're not here to spill blood. There are more important matters at hand. I suppose you ANBU are here to escort us to Konoha for the Chunin Exams."
Swordsman with Samehada: [Still in shock] "What is this? We've never felt a presence like this before."
Swordsman with Hiramekarei: [With respect and understanding] "This power is on another level. We understand we're dealing with someone extraordinary."
The ANBU leader nodded silently, confirming that they were there to escort Katahara and his group to Konoha. The ANBU, accustomed to receiving orders and carrying out important missions, didn't question Katahara's authority and prepared for the escort.
Katahara: [Smiling slightly] "There's no need to worry. Our intention is simply to attend the Chunin Exams. We're not looking for trouble."
With those words, Katahara and his group joined the ANBU and headed toward Konoha. Despite the lingering tension, Katahara's promise to avoid conflict and the presence of the ANBU brought a sense of security. The bloodlust that Katahara had used dissipated instantly, allowing the swordsman with Hiramekarei and Samehada to regain control of themselves. They both understood that facing Katahara would be a battle they couldn't win; his level of power was simply too high, even compared to the Mizukage.
ANBU: [Confirming the mission] "The Hokage has entrusted us to escort you to Konoha for the Chunin Exams. We will continue with the mission."
They arrived in Konoha without further incident. Katahara stood before the imposing gates of Konoha, the Hidden Leaf Village. The atmosphere was thick with tension and anticipation as he and his group awaited the greeting from the Konoha ninjas. Despite being in foreign territory, Katahara maintained his serene and composed demeanor, reflecting the calm confidence that defined him.
The ANBU escorting them remained alert, senses sharpened and ready to act in case of any eventuality. Katahara's overwhelming presence was still evident, but he had learned to control it so as not to intimidate others too much.
The Konoha ninjas guarding the gates cautiously analyzed Katahara and his group. The reputation of the Kirigakure members, especially the two Swordsmen of the Mist, preceded them, generating a certain level of distrust. However, they also knew the purpose of their visit and had received orders from the Hokage to escort them during the Chunin Exams.
Welcome to Konoha, ninjas of Kirigakure. The Chunin Exams are about to begin..."
Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage of Konoha, froze for a moment upon recognizing Katahara. His gaze hardened, recalling past events he had buried deep in his memory.
Katahara: [With a calm smile] "Hiruzen Sarutobi... It's been many years since we last met. I deeply regret the death of your master... Tobirama was a great leader."
Hiruzen, bewildered, vividly remembered how Katahara had faced Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage. The strength and skill of Katahara back then were something he had never forgotten. His eyes narrowed as he tried to read the intentions of his former acquaintance.
Hiruzen Sarutobi: [In a cautious and respectful voice] "It's an... honor to see you again, Katahara-sama. It seems you now belong to Kirigakure."
Katahara: [Nodding slowly] "That's right, Hiruzen. Kirigakure offered me a proposal I couldn't refuse... the position of Elder."
Hiruzen Sarutobi: [Intrigued] "So, you are the fifth elder that has been talked about... the envoy from Kirigakure."
Katahara: "Correct. I am here as the leader of the delegation. Our intention is to participate in the Chunin Exams and, hopefully, strengthen the bonds between our villages."
Hiruzen Sarutobi: [Nodding gravely] "I understand. The Chunin Exams are an opportunity for our young ninjas to demonstrate their skills and promote cooperation between the villages. I wish you success in the exams."
Katahara: [With a slight smile] "Thank you, Hiruzen. I trust our young will do their best in the competition."
Hiruzen Sarutobi: "Our Jonin will escort you to your accommodations. I hope your stay in Konoha is... fruitful."
After exchanging farewell words, Hiruzen headed directly to his office, where Danzo Shimura, one of the most influential shinobi in Konoha, was waiting for him.