Mastering the Elements - Chapter - 16

It didn’t take long for the Hokage’s office to receive the news—Hari Pottaru had arrived in Konohagakure. The gatekeeper, a seasoned shinobi with a sharp eye for trouble, relayed the details promptly.

“Hokage-sama,” the gatekeeper reported, bowing respectfully before the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, in his dimly lit office. “A foreigner by the name of Hari Pottaru has entered the village. He presented a letter of authorization from the Daimyo himself, granting him unrestricted access throughout the Fire Country, including Konoha.”

Hiruzen, puffing on his pipe, narrowed his eyes. He knew about the existence of Hari Pottaru. Whispers. Rumors. An enigma. The man had disappeared from the public eye for years, but now, he was back—and that alone warranted attention.

“Did he cause any trouble at the gates?” Hiruzen asked, his voice calm but laced with underlying concern.

“No, Hokage-sama. He arrived quietly, carrying himself like any other traveler. But…” the gatekeeper hesitated, “…there’s something about him. He doesn’t feel like an ordinary civilian.”

Hiruzen exhaled slowly, the smoke curling around him like a serpent. “Of course he’s not.”

With a wave of his hand, Hiruzen dismissed the gatekeeper and turned to his ever-present ANBU guards hidden in the shadows.

“Follow him,” the Hokage commanded. “Do not engage unless necessary. Observe, report, but do not let him know he's being watched.”

The ANBU nodded silently and vanished from the office in a blur of motion.

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. The name Hari Pottaru had surfaced in whispers within the intelligence community years ago. A powerful, unknown force that moved like a ghost through various nations—appearing, vanishing, and always leaving behind traces of mystery and intrigue. That's why he send Mikoto Uchiha to get more information out of the man, which turned into a disaster.

But what concerned Hiruzen the most were the recent events surrounding Itachi Uchiha.

Wood Release...

It was an ability so rare, so coveted, that only the First Hokage, Hashirama Senju, was known to have possessed it. And now, Itachi Uchiha, a prodigy even among his clan, had somehow unlocked it.

Hiruzen tapped his fingers against his desk, eyes narrowing.

Could Itachi’s ability has inherited from his father?

Despite the Daimyo’s letter, which effectively tied his hands legally, Hiruzen couldn’t afford to let his guard down. Hari Pottaru was dangerous. The way he carried himself, the quiet confidence, and the way he had reappeared after years of absence all pointed to a man of considerable skill and knowledge.

Hiruzen’s mind drifted back to his own encounters with formidable warriors—men like Orochimaru, men who wore masks of civility while holding terrifying power beneath.

“I will not take any chances,” Hiruzen murmured to himself. “Not when it comes to Konoha’s safety.”

He turned to one of his trusted advisors, Homura Mitokado, who had been silently observing the exchange.

“Keep a discreet watch on him,” Hiruzen said. “I want daily reports of his activities.”

Homura nodded gravely. “Understood, Hokage-sama. And if he makes contact with anyone… notable?”

Hiruzen’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Inform me immediately.”

As Harry walked through the streets of Konoha, he could feel the subtle presence of eyes watching him. He didn’t need magic to know he was being followed.

Hiruzen is cautious, as expected, Harry thought, a small smirk tugging at his lips. Can’t say I blame him.

He kept his pace leisurely, taking in the sights and smells of the village he once visited so long ago. Stalls filled with fresh produce, children running through the streets, and shinobi moving about with a silent efficiency that reminded him how different this world was from the one he once knew.

His thoughts drifted to Mikoto and Itachi. Would they welcome him? Or had too much time passed?

As he continued walking, a small cluster of ANBU flitted through the rooftops above, carefully keeping their distance but never losing sight of him.

Harry sighed inwardly. They’ll learn nothing of real importance if they keep watching from a distance.

He decided to play along for now, heading toward a small tea house where he could sit and strategize his next move.

Back in the Hokage’s office, another report landed on Hiruzen’s desk, detailing Harry’s movements within the village.

“He’s not doing anything suspicious,” an ANBU reported. “Just walking through the streets, observing, occasionally asking directions. No indication of subversive activity.”

Hiruzen nodded but wasn’t reassured. “Even the most dangerous men start their plans slowly.”

A sinking feeling gnawed at him. If Harry had anything to do with Itachi’s newfound power, then it was essential to find out the truth—without making an enemy of him.

As Harry sipped his tea, he gazed out the window at the bustling village and smiled to himself.

Soon enough, he thought. I’ll see them soon enough.

Harry stood in front of the grand entrance to Konoha’s most luxurious hotel, the towering building gleaming in the afternoon sunlight. He had no reservations about spending his wealth—gold meant little to him, but comfort was something he had come to appreciate over the years.

As he stepped inside, the lavish décor reminded him of his time spent in royal courts, and without hesitation, he booked the finest suite available. If he was going to stay in Konoha, he might as well do it in style.

Settling into his room, Harry gazed out the window, his mind swirling with thoughts of Mikoto and Itachi. Despite his years of experience facing dark lords and entire armies, facing his past felt more daunting than any battle he had ever fought.

How do I even begin? he thought, running a hand through his messy hair. Do I just show up at her doorstep? What if she’s moved on? What if she hates me?

Sighing, Harry stood up, deciding that delaying the inevitable wouldn’t help. Just as he turned to leave his suite, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts.

“Well, well. Look who’s living it up in Konoha.”

Harry turned to see Tsunade, standing in the doorway with her arms crossed and a playful smirk on her lips.

He grinned. “Tsunade. Didn’t expect to see you here so soon.”

Tsunade walked in without invitation, plopping herself onto the plush armchair in his suite. “I couldn’t resist. Had to make sure you weren’t spending all that money of yours on something ridiculous.”

Harry chuckled, sitting across from her. “I like to enjoy myself when I can.”

Tsunade leaned back, eyeing him curiously. “So… where are you headed?”

Harry hesitated, then decided honesty wouldn’t hurt. “I’ve heard there's a boy here who can make trees appear out of nowhere. I’m here to see him.”

Tsunade raised an eyebrow and then laughed. “So am I.”

Harry tilted his head. “You too?”

She nodded. “I swore I’d never set foot in this village again, but when I heard that the Wood Release had returned, well… I had to see it for myself. It’s a rare ability, and I need to confirm if it’s real.”

Harry smiled, amused at the coincidence—or perhaps fate. “Looks like we’ve got the same goal.”

Tsunade smirked. “Great minds think alike. Or maybe you just have good taste in company.”

Harry stood up, stretching. “Well then, care to join me in finding this boy?”

Tsunade shrugged. “Why not? Two heads are better than one.”

Harry and Tsunade made their way through the bustling streets of Konoha, weaving through merchants and shinobi alike.

Despite his calm demeanor, Harry’s heart pounded as they neared the Uchiha district. He hadn’t seen Mikoto in years—would she recognize him? Would she welcome him back? Or would she shut him out?

“You’re thinking too much,” Tsunade said, elbowing him lightly.

Harry smirked. “It’s been a long time.”

“Regrets?” she asked casually.

Harry exhaled. “Maybe. But I’m here now.”

Tsunade nodded. “That’s what matters.”

As they walked, Harry’s thoughts turned to Itachi. He had learned bits and pieces from the whispers in the village—how Itachi was a prodigy, how he had already graduated as a Chunin at such a young age, and how the return of the Wood Release had thrown the entire village into speculation.

Suddenly, Tsunade nudged him and pointed toward a quiet residential area. “That’s where the Uchiha live. If you’re looking for answers, that’s where we start.”

Harry took a deep breath. “Let’s do it.”

After asking around in the Uchiha district, Harry and Tsunade found themselves faced with an uncomfortable truth.

One of the Uchiha elders scoffed when they inquired about Mikoto. “She’s no longer part of the clan,” the elder said coldly. “She disgraced the Uchiha name by getting pregnant before marriage. She’s not welcome here.”

Harry felt a surge of anger at the elder’s words, but he kept his face neutral. Tsunade, on the other hand, cracked her knuckles menacingly. “Tch, typical clan politics,” she muttered under her breath.

Fortunately, a young boy named Shisui, an Uchiha with bright, friendly eyes, overheard their conversation and approached them.

“I know where she lives,” Shisui said hesitantly. “Itachi is my friend.”

Harry smiled at the boy’s kindness. “Thank you, Shisui. We’d appreciate the help.”

Shisui gave them the address and wished them luck. Following the directions through the village, they soon arrived at a modest but well-kept house on the outskirts of the Uchiha district. Harry felt a knot in his stomach as he walked up to the door and knocked.

After a brief pause, the door creaked open, and there she stood—Mikoto.

Her long black hair was pulled back into a loose bun, and she wore a simple yet elegant kimono. Her eyes, filled with warmth and surprise, widened in shock when she saw Harry standing before her.

For a moment, she didn’t speak, just stared, as if trying to make sure she wasn’t imagining things.

Harry broke the silence with a soft smile. “Is it Hitomi… or Mikoto?” he asked, using the alias she had once given him.

A flash of emotion crossed her face—nostalgia, disbelief, and something else he couldn’t quite place. Then, slowly, she smiled, the years between them melting away in an instant.

“It’s Mikoto,” she whispered, and without another word, she stepped aside and gestured for them to come in. “Please, come in.”

Harry and Tsunade entered the small but cozy home. The scent of freshly brewed tea lingered in the air, and the warm atmosphere gave Harry a sense of bittersweet familiarity.

Mikoto set out tea for her guests, her hands slightly trembling as she poured. She sat across from Harry, her gaze fixed on him as though she feared he might disappear again.

“You’ve… changed,” she said softly.

Harry chuckled. “Happens when you’ve been gone for so long.”

Tsunade, sipping her tea casually, smirked. “You two have a lot to catch up on. I’ll just enjoy the tea and watch the show.”

Mikoto’s eyes flicked toward her briefly before returning to Harry. “Why now?” she asked, a touch of sadness in her voice. “Why come back after all this time?”

Harry sighed, placing his teacup down. “Because I found out about him—about Itachi. I didn’t know, Mikoto. I would have come sooner if I had.”

Mikoto’s gaze softened, but there was still uncertainty in her eyes. “I never thought you’d return.”

“I should have,” Harry admitted. “But I was… afraid. Afraid that everything we had was just a mission for you.”

Mikoto’s eyes widened at his confession, and she shook her head firmly. “No. What we had was real. I may have been a shinobi back then, but my feelings… they were always real, Harry.”

He exhaled deeply, relief washing over him. “I believe you.”

Tsunade, sensing the emotional weight of the conversation, leaned forward. “So, where’s the little prodigy? I want to meet him.”

Mikoto smiled softly, standing up. “Itachi is at the market right now. He should be back soon.”

Harry’s asked even though he knew. “He’s training to be a shinobi?”

Mikoto nodded. “He’s already a Chunin.”

A short while later, the front door opened, and footsteps echoed in the small house.

“Mom, I’m back,” a calm voice called out.

Harry turned his head as the boy walked into the room. Itachi. He was smaller than Harry imagined but carried himself with an air of maturity far beyond his years. His dark hair framed his youthful but serious face, and his emerald-green eyes—Harry’s eyes—stood out, filled with intelligence and quiet strength.

Itachi froze when he noticed Harry, his gaze flicking between him and Mikoto. “Who is he?”

Mikoto stood beside Itachi, her hand gently resting on his shoulder. “Itachi… this is your father.”

There was a long pause, and Harry’s heart pounded in his chest. He watched Itachi’s expression carefully, searching for any signs of anger, confusion, or resentment.

Instead, Itachi simply tilted his head and said, “I have questions.”

Harry smiled, the corner of his lips tugging up. “And I have answers.”

Tsunade, smirking at the exchange, nudged Harry lightly. “Well, looks like you’ve got your work cut out for you.”

Mikoto smiled gently. “Let’s sit down. We have a lot to talk about.”

And with that, they sat together as a family for the first time in years, ready to face whatever the future held—together.