Hashirama's voice reverberated in everyone's ears like a great bell.
His entire body radiated an immense aura, pressing down on everyone until they could barely breathe.
The originally clamorous scene instantly fell silent. Everyone looked at Hashirama in terror, their eyes filled with awe.
Hashirama slowly raised his hand. Wood Release! Countless wooden branches burst from the ground, swiftly binding everyone present.
The wood precisely controlled them, leaving them unable to move even an inch.
Then the wood transformed and assembled into rows of chairs. With no power to resist, everyone present was forcibly "pressed" onto their seats by Hashirama.
His gaze was cold and resolute as it swept across the entire scene like a chill wind.
This move was both a show of force against the others and a display of his overwhelming strength.
After all, only absolute power could deter those harboring ulterior motives.
"Of course, if anyone is unwilling to join Konoha Village, you may stand up and state your position now. Konoha Village will never force anyone to do something against their will."
Hashirama's voice echoed throughout the hall, calm yet carrying an irresistible authority.
The moment his words fell, a commotion immediately erupted within the hall. Many people wore excited expressions and raised their hands one after another, indicating that they had something to say.
At that moment, a clear voice rang throughout the hall. "I represent Hidden Snow Village. We're willing to join Konoha Village!"
Everyone turned toward the voice. The speaker was a slender, beautiful female ninja with bright eyes and gleaming teeth.
Hashirama gave a slight nod, indicating his welcome.
After that, several more people stepped forward one after another to express their willingness to join.
Everyone present could see that these were tiny ninja villages—small beyond measure. Their declarations of submission