In the end, Shinada could not endure the pain and passed out.
After using a few items to strengthen his constitution and keep him alive, Tetsuya had someone take him back to his room.
"That really was a surprise. I never expected Shinada to have such strong willpower. He actually held on until the final stage of the transformation before passing out. How did I never notice how tough he was before?"
Tetsuya spoke with some admiration as he poured himself a cup of tea.
Hashirama set down his teacup and said,
"People change. Besides, Shinada has seen a lot more since he started following you. Sometimes, seeing more of the world changes a person's mindset. Once their mindset changes, their whole character changes with it."
"I see."
Madara added,
"Ultimately, it was his environment that changed him.
Even the weak become strong when they stay by your side."
"Come on, you two. You're making me blush."
"It's the truth. Even Hashirama and I have kept growing stronger since we met you, haven't we?"
"All right!"
Tetsuya clapped his hands and stood up.
"Since you put it that way, let's go get even stronger."
"Huh?"
Hashirama froze for a moment. How had the subject changed so quickly?
Tetsuya patted Hashirama on the shoulder.
"Come on. Let's find somewhere to help you break through to Six Paths level.
Once you reach Six Paths level, you, me, Madara, and Izuna can head beyond the Shinobi World together. We'll find those Ōtsutsuki planting trees everywhere and take our first step toward conquering the Sea of Stars!"
"Oh, it seems I've come at a bad time. Are you planning to venture beyond the Shinobi World?"
As soon as Tetsuya finished speaking, a voice came from outside.
Jigen walked in through the doorway.
"Hey, Jigen.