One evening, she finally gathered her resolve. She decided to perform the summoning jutsu, an ability that had intrigued her from the very beginning of her Naruto fandom.
"Alright!" she declared to herself. "I'll do the summoning technique, and I should be transported to Shikkotsu Forest!" She grinned, feeling undeterred. "I can do this. I've watched it enough times to know how it works."
With that, she focused her chakra, bit her thumb, and performed the necessary hand signs. Then, with a slam of her palms against the ground, she announced, "Summoning jutsu!"
A plume of smoke erupted, enveloping her momentarily. Then, as it began to clear, she braced herself for what was to come.
When the haze dissipated, she found herself not in the Leaf Village but somewhere entirely different. She opened her eyes to a thick, green forest—dense trees soaring high above her and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
Margaret gazed in awe as she yelled, "I did it! I'm really here!"
This secluded and mysterious location was one of the three unexplored sage regions, never revealed in the series but only spoken of among die-hard fans.
She couldn't believe it actually worked—her summoning jutsu had actually transported her to her heart's desires.
The purpose of this adventure was crystal clear: to acquire a Sage Mode. She remembered the unique abilities bestowed upon those who perfected the art of sage techniques, and it was never going to be passed up if she knew how to acquire it.
While it had never been confirmed in the series whether a Sage Mode could be acquired in Shikkotsu Forest, it felt like the perfect opportunity to at least try.
She had studied everything about this world, every technique, and every trick. How could she not succeed?
As Margaret walked deeper into the forest, she marveled at the surroundings that felt almost otherworldly. There was blue grass; these trees were not just ordinary flora; they sported whimsical polka dots of different colours.
It truly was astonishing.
As she strolled, she considered the possibility of there even being a special Sage Mode here. Acquiring that transformation was no simple feat, as each Sage Mode had their own trials to conquer before learning to wield its power.
Shikkotsu Forest had a reputation for housing nature's abundant energy, and she was determined to tap into it.
After some time, she stumbled upon what looked like a settlement under much greenery. However, not a single building resembled those found in villages; this village seemed to be a natural habitat designed specifically for giant slugs.
Intrigued, she climbed the moss-laden path leading to the entrance. Once there, she summoned her courage and called out, "Katsuyu!"
Her voice echoed through the foliage, but there was no response. So she raised her voice again, "Katsuyu!"
This time, she detected subtle movement in the underbrush. A large slug about her size emerged. The creature looked curiously at her before asking, "Who are you?"
Its tone was polite yet cautious.
"I'm Margaret, and I'm actually Tsunade's cousin from the Senju clan!"
The slug's interest perked at this revelation, and it expressed gratitude that Margaret was affiliated with someone as renowned as Tsunade. "What brings you to our humble abode?"
"I'm here to learn Slug Sage Mode!" Margaret eagerly replied.
The slug, however, tilted its head in confusion. "Slug Sage Mode? I'm not sure what you mean."
Margaret's enthusiasm faltered as she processed this unexpected response. She had always assumed that this forest was where one would acquire the unique abilities associated with slugs and their legendary summoner.
"Wait," she said, furrowing her brow. "Isn't this where I can learn it?"
"I don't quite know what you mean," the slug slowly answered.
"Then… Can I speak to Lady Katsuyu?"
Katsuyu was a colossal slug-like creature, often summoned during critical battles to assist its main summoner, Tsunade. Known for its immense size that can dwarf mountains, Katsuyu's full dimensions remain undetermined, as even a partial summoning represents only a fraction of its true form.
Unlike other notable summonings that may vary in size or number, all instances of Katsuyu are merely segments of the same entity, making it unique among summons.
Its appearance features a predominantly white body with blue markings, accentuated by sensory tentacles and distinctive eyes.
Personality-wise, she is characterized by her meekness and loyalty, showing deep respect for Tsunade by addressing her with honorifics. This respect extends to other characters such as Sakura and Shizune, who also honor the creature's presence.
And despite its sizable appearance, Katsuyu has a playful side, often engaging in lighthearted banter, particularly when recounting amusing stories about its experiences alongside Tsunade.
Katsuyu's abilities also go beyond mere combat prowess; it serves as a valuable support entity on the battlefield. It possesses techniques that allow it to heal others by channeling chakra through its smaller clones, creating a vital link between the summoner and injured allies.
Additionally, she can split into smaller versions for tactical advantages, offering both offensive and defensive strategies. This ability to divide not only makes Katsuyu an effective combatant but also facilitates communication and information-gathering during critical moments, enhancing the overall coordination of an allied force.
The slug speaking with Margaret nodded, seemingly acquiescing to her request. "Very well, follow me."
It led her through the village, which was characterized by its slimy landscape—every surface seemed coated in the unique mucus. There were no doors, only large tunnel entrances that slugs would naturally navigate.
Margaret was both amused and intrigued by this fascinating habitat.
Eventually, they arrived at a spacious chamber that resembled a vast slime-filled cave.
"Lady Katsuyu is inside," the slug announced, guiding her further into this gooey realm.
Deep within the cave, Katsuyu awaited her, a sight that both humbled and inspired her. The great slug was much larger than what she had anticipated. In fact, Katsuyu was so large that Margaret honestly couldn't tell where she began or where she ended.
Margaret bowed deeply and formally introduced herself, saying, "Greetings, Lady Katsuyu. I'm Margaret Senju, and I am skilled in medical ninjutsu."
The massive slug regarded her thoughtfully before genuinely saying, "You remind me of Tsunade as if her spirit lives on in you."
Though Margaret had never met Tsunade, she admired her greatly as a character.
"What do you know of my bond with Tsunade?" Katsuyu inquired.
Margaret took a moment to respond, collecting her thoughts before sharing her knowledge. "Tsunade is a Sannin who fought valiantly in the war. She's well-known for her skills and has even perfected the art of medical ninjutsu. You, Lady Katsuyu, have been by her side through it all, fighting alongside her and healing her comrades."
The admiration in her voice was evident, and Katsuyu's eyes twinkled with appreciation. "You display impressive knowledge. It's not often that I encounter someone so well-informed about my past."
Margaret quickly returned to her purpose and said, "Well, since you seem quite happy about it, I came here to learn Slug Sage Mode."
"I do not recognize that term," Katsuyu answered honestly. "Perhaps you mean something else?"
Margaret became confused. She had assumed that this transformation would at least be a well-documented subject among the inhabitants of the forest.
"No, no," she said, trying to clarify. "Slug Sage Mode! You know, the power that allows users to harness natural energy and transform them into enhanced versions of a slug!"
Katsuyu remained silent, trying to connect Margaret's description. "I think I may know what you are referring to, but it's not called Slug Sage Mode here. We refer to it as 'Mollusk Manifestation.'"
The name sounded ridiculous to Margaret, and she couldn't suppress her reaction. "That's a stupid name! Slug Sage Mode sounds so much better!"
One would think that a large slug would be offended by the comment, but she was actually amused, even going as far as letting out a bubbling laugh.
"As a kin of Tsunade, I would be more than happy to teach you this ability."
The enthusiastic response filled Margaret with joy, but there was a caveat; she soon learned that tempered her excitement.
"To learn Mollusk Manifestation, you must enter my body and ingest my slime," Katsuyu revealed.
Margaret knew there was a catch to this. "Wait, if I don't succeed, what happens?"
Katsuyu's motherly instincts kicked in as she said, "If you cannot manage, my antibodies might attack and consume you."
Margaret felt a chill run down her spine, but she squared her shoulders resolutely and declared, "I'm sure I can handle it! If it comes to it, I can always burst out—"
Katsuyu winced at that notion, knowing that something like that would hurt. And while this was a risky endeavor, Margaret could feel the pull of destiny—this was her chance to embrace her dream, to become something greater, and to forge a unique path.
"What happens after I learn it?" she asked.
"If you can balance the natural energy, your body will transform, and you will gain regenerative abilities. I believe you will also gain the capability to shoot concentrated acid strong enough to kill. And because of our slime, you'll gain immunity to most physical and ninjutsu attacks. Genjutsu will also be rendered useless, and you can even create slug clones at will. Though, there may be other hidden powers yet to be discovered."
Margaret couldn't help but feel exhilaration at the thought of those incredible abilities.
"Then it's worth it!" she declared. "Let's do this!"
"Very well. Prepare yourself. This journey will test your limits, but with the right spirit, you may surprise yourself."
Margaret steeled herself for the unexpected transformation awaiting her. This would be the adventure of a lifetime, and alongside her new mentor, she was ready to dive into the depths of the unknown.
Her dream of perfecting a new Sage Mode was no longer just a fantasy—it was within reach, and she was determined to seize the moment.
In the days that followed, Margaret had spent countless hours honing her newly acquired Slug Sage Mode.
The transformation had elevated her skills to a level she never dreamed possible. She loved the sense of power coursing through her, giving her a cocky confidence that was hard to shake off. She could even feel the natural energy flowing through her, augmenting not just her physical strength, but also sharpening her reflexes and heightening her senses in ways that made her feel invincible.
Her new techniques were a significant leap compared to the other Sage Modes she had observed; they felt almost broken—limitless, in a way.
The ability to harness natural energy, regenerate from injuries, and even create deadly acid projectiles made her a force to be reckoned with. Yet, with power came responsibility, and she was determined to save this formidable transformation for moments that truly required it.
After she had perfected it, Katsuyu gave her a special healing slug that could otherwise restore anyone to their natural state regardless of what situation they were in.
It was a one-time use, and the slug was small enough to store in one's pockets.
While Margaret didn't ever find herself needing to use it due to her natural regeneration skills, she decided to keep it on hand for any emergencies. And with that, she departed Shikkotsu Forest.