Lunch was served in the courtyard of Naruto's new home.
When they saw Hashirama carrying the dishes out himself, Hyuga Hiashi and Inoichi Yamanaka, who were already seated at the table, sprang to their feet, their faces filled with respect.
"Lord First, we couldn't possibly let you do this!"
Hiashi hurried forward and reached for the plates.
"Exactly, let us help. Please, take a seat!"
Inoichi hastily agreed, looking nervous.
"Hahahaha!"
Hashirama burst into hearty laughter.
Rather than hand the plates to Hiashi, he took two quick steps forward and set them on the table. With his hands free, he planted one firmly on Hiashi's shoulder. The pressure was light, but there was a gentle authority to it that brooked no argument.
"Sit down, everyone, sit down!"
Hashirama spoke with a cheerful smile.
"It's a happy occasion, and we're all here to share a meal. Let's dispense with the formalities. These days, I'm just a man with time on his hands."
As he spoke, he turned and called into the house, "Tobirama, come help! Your sister-in-law's still cooking, and I can't carry everything out myself."
Hiashi stiffened beneath Hashirama's hand, but still tried to protest. "Lord First, please let us..."
"Yes, Lord First, let us do it!"
Inoichi pleaded again, shooting Hiashi a meaningful look.
Just then, a cool voice came from the doorway:
"Brother, stop making things difficult for them."
Tobirama Senju stood leaning against the doorframe with his arms folded, his red eyes sweeping indifferently over the flustered Hiashi and Inoichi.
He had clearly heard Hashirama's call, but seemed to have little interest in carrying dishes.
Tobirama's tone was level.
"If the younger generation is so eager, let them help. Settle down a little yourself. Don't scare them."
There were five tables in the courtyard.
Two for the