Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, half a year has passed.
At Konoha Hospital, Tetsuya follows his usual routine of healing patients each morning to earn attributes and points from his system. What started as treating ten patients a day has now quadrupled, thanks to the discovery that Tetsuya's healing techniques can also mend dark wounds.
Many seemingly healthy ninjas flock to him, hoping to rid themselves of long-hidden injuries. Tetsuya, ever the cunning strategist, never completely heals them in one go. Instead, he halts treatment at the threshold required for the system's rewards, asking them to return in a few days. His reasoning is simple: "Segmented treatment yields better results." In reality, it allows him to gather more points—a profitable behavior indeed.
"Cure one patient, gain Chakra +2.5, Wind Attribute Nature Transformation +24, Points +2."
The system prompt sounded in his mind, but Tetsuya maintained his professional demeanor. "Mr. Inuzuka, that's all for today's treatment. After three more sessions, your right foot will fully recover."
The Inuzuka clan ninja beamed with joy. "Thank you, little genius doctor. I'll be back in two days."
After the patient left with a cane, Tetsuya sighed. "Little genius doctor, what a title," he muttered. Due to his effective healing techniques, Tetsuya's reputation had grown significantly over the past six months. The nickname stuck, and even patients referred to him by it now.
Removing his white coat, Tetsuya's day's work was done. As he exited the hospital, he saw a familiar figure waiting—Hinata, holding a bento box.
"Hinata, sorry to keep you waiting," Tetsuya said, smiling warmly as he ruffled her purple hair gently.
"I-I just arrived too, Tetsuya," Hinata stammered, her face flushing as she felt his touch. She held the food box with trembling hands. Tetsuya's touch was comforting, but it always left her feeling flustered.
Tetsuya took the food box from her. "Your cooking has improved again!" he praised, taking a bite of the shrimp tempura. The sweetness of the shrimp and the crispy texture made him close his eyes in delight.
Hinata beamed with joy. Knowing Tetsuya's schedule, she often brought him lunch. One day, Tetsuya had jokingly mentioned wanting to eat a bento made by her, and Hinata took it seriously, practicing her cooking diligently since then.
The meals Hinata prepared were delicious, using top-quality ingredients from the Hyuga household. However, the cost of these lunches was high, enough to sustain Naruto on ramen for half a month.
"Is Tetsuya going to train after eating?" Hinata asked, knowing his routine well. Today, her father had granted her extra time to spend outside, and she hoped to be with Tetsuya.
Tetsuya shook his head. "Not today. I'm giving myself a half-day off."
His initial training plan couldn't keep up with his rapid progress. Despite his Sage Body allowing for swift growth and high potential, the efficiency of simple training was waning. Instead of wasting time, he needed new strategies. Moreover, Hinata's hopeful eyes softened his resolve.
"Hinata, let's take a stroll around Konoha this afternoon."
Hinata's eyes lit up. "R-Really?"
"Yes, really," Tetsuya affirmed, smiling. He owed her this much after all the support she had given him.
The two set off to explore Konoha, a simple yet meaningful gesture that strengthened their bond. As they walked, Tetsuya couldn't help but feel grateful for the friends he was making and the progress he was achieving. He knew that with determination and the right companions, his future in the ninja world was bright.