Shisui was taken aback. Tsunade, one of the legendary Sannin and a figure of immense strength and medical knowledge, had been a person of interest for Konoha for quite some time. Despite his best efforts and even dispatching Jiraiya to find her, Tsunade remained elusive, her whereabouts a mystery that even the extensive intelligence network of Konoha couldn't unravel. "Do you even know where she is?" Shisui asked, a mix of skepticism and hope lacing his voice. The prospect of reintegrating Tsunade into the village's fold was too significant to ignore, her skills a potential boon for Konoha's future.

To Shisui's disappointment, Horyu shook his head. "Last time she saved me, she said I could find a person to take me to her. I've already mentioned this to you." His reference was to a peculiar middleperson, someone Tsunade trusted enough to serve as a link between her and those seeking her out. This middleperson, according to what Horyu had shared before, possessed a seal that could directly communicate with Tsunade under certain conditions—conditions that safeguarded Tsunade from betrayal or harm.

Shisui's realization dawned upon him with a simple "Ah." There was a middleperson tasked with contacting Tsunade on others' behalf. Yet, Tsunade's genius was evident in the seal's design. This seal, a marvel of craftsmanship, was programmed to only alert Tsunade under specific conditions. It possessed the remarkable ability to detect if the person who wanted to see her was under any form of threat, disguise, or harboring malicious intent towards Tsunade. Having learned about this seal from both Horyu and Kurenai, Shisui deduced that it must be an ancient seal, possibly left by Mito, given its advanced capabilities to even sense malice.

Waving his hand dismissively, Shisui gave his consent. "Fine, do whatever you want." The thought of Hinata and Ino training under Tsunade and potentially bringing back her allegiance to Konoha was a prospect Shisui couldn't easily dismiss. If they could navigate the complexities of contacting Tsunade and earning her tutelage, the benefits for Konoha—and for the individuals involved—would be immeasurable.

As Horyu departed from Shisui's office, his mind was already racing with the logistics of his next moves. His upcoming journey to uncover the secrets of the Uzumaki and his manipulation of events to send Hinata and Ino to train with Tsunade were gambles, but they were calculated ones. The potential rewards far outweighed the risks, and Horyu was no stranger to playing the long game.

"Guess it's time to start pulling some strings," Horyu mused, his lips curving into a smirk. He had skillfully suggested that Hinata and Ino set out on a journey to locate Tsunade, a move that played well into his larger strategy. Both Ino and Hinata were his women; he was already engaged to Ino, while Hinata harbored a deep infatuation for him. It seemed almost certain that Hinata, too, would be drawn into his fold in time. Horyu's primary concern wasn't necessarily Tsunade's potential contribution to Konoha. More importantly, by becoming a mentor to these two promising kunoichi, he would forge a direct connection with Tsunade, elevating his future prospects within the village. Besides, Tsunade's strength and influence could prove invaluable in times of need.

Training with the Kurohane Owl Tribe, delving into Uzushiogakure's ruins, and now this... It's going to be a busy time," Horyu acknowledged, his steps firm and purposeful as he made his way through the village. His first destination was the flower shop, where he intended to discuss his idea with Ino and her parents. Ino, being his formal fiancée, warranted this conversation as a matter of both respect and strategy.

As he entered the shop, the familiar scent of fresh flowers enveloped him. Inoichi, Ino's father, looked up from arranging a bouquet. Despite his respect for Horyu, stemming from the young Uchiha's recovery of lost Yamanaka techniques, Inoichi's face held a trace of displeasure. It was no secret that he was less than thrilled about Horyu's engagement to his princess, seeing him as too cold and distant for someone as vibrant as Ino.

Ima, Ino's mother, greeted Horyu with a warm smile, her demeanor always inviting. She found Horyu's respectful attitude endearing and often chuckled at her husband's barely concealed annoyance. "Horyu, dear, what brings you here today?" she asked, placing a freshly cut flower in a vase.

"I have something important to discuss," Horyu replied, scanning the shop for Ino. Just then, Ino descended from the upstairs living quarters, her steps light and her face brightening upon seeing Horyu. "You're here early," she remarked, her smile widening.

After exchanging pleasantries and a brief explanation of his intentions, Horyu delved into the heart of the matter. "I've been thinking about the future," he began, his tone serious yet open. "And how best to prepare ourselves for the challenges ahead. Tsunade-sama's tutelage could offer you unparalleled medical and combat training. It's an opportunity I believe we should pursue."

Inoichi frowned, considering Horyu's proposal. "Tsunade-sama is a legend, but her whereabouts have been a mystery for years. How do you propose we find her?"

Horyu met Inoichi's gaze, his confidence unwavering. "Through a contact Tsunade-sama trusts. She's made it clear that this individual can guide those she deems worthy to her location."

Ima looked from Horyu to Ino, sensing the potential benefits of such training. "It could be dangerous," she said, her voice tinged with concern.

Horyu nodded. "There's always risk in the pursuit of strength. But I assure you, the benefits far outweigh the dangers. This isn't just about personal growth—it's about ensuring Konoha's future prosperity."

Ino, who had listened quietly, spoke up. "I trust Horyu's judgment. If he believes this is the right path for me, then I'm willing to take the risk."

The room fell silent as Inoichi and Ima exchanged glances, weighing the decision. Finally, Inoichi sighed, his expression softening. "If you believe in this so strongly, Horyu, and Ino agrees, then who am I to stand in the way? Just promise me you'll both be careful."

Horyu offered a respectful nod, understanding the weight of Inoichi's concession. "Thank you. I promise we'll take every precaution."

After bidding goodbye to Ino's parents, Horyu and Ino stepped out of the flower shop, their strides synchronized, reflecting a camaraderie born of shared experiences and secrets. As they walked shoulder to shoulder under the vibrant hues of the afternoon sky, Horyu broke the silence, "I plan to give the same opportunity to Hinata." Ino's initial surprise quickly gave way to a nod of understanding. However, a visible hesitance lingered on her face, prompting Horyu to encourage openness between them. "Say it. You don't have to hide anything from me," he urged.

Ino sighed, gathering her thoughts before voicing her concern. "Can you arrange the same for Sakura? She's the best with Chakra Control, and this could benefit her greatly." Horyu's expression tightened, revealing a mix of reluctance and past resentments. Sakura's treatment of him during their academy days, coupled with her alliance with Sasuke against him, had left a lasting bitterness. "Sakura focuses on Genjutsu, under the tutelage of Itachi-sama. Although she could excel in Healing Jutsu, her path is different," Horyu reasoned, his tone final yet reflective of underlying discord.

Ino studied Horyu's demeanor, recognizing the depth of his feelings. She knew of Sakura's past actions and, understanding Horyu's stance, chose not to press further. The conversation drifted to other topics as they continued their walk, eventually parting ways with a mutual respect for each other's perspectives.

After bidding goodbye to Ino, Horyu made his way to the Hyuga compound, a place he'd visited many times before for training sessions with Hinata and Hanabi. However, today's visit felt different; it was more formal, marked by an undercurrent of anticipation and a sense of purpose. As he entered the traditional Hyuga household, Hinata, with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, guided him to her father's study.