Chapitre 323: CH_9.8 (323)

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———

Takuma was stressed.

Not only did he have Might Gai at his promotion ceremony, but the Hokage himself was coming to attend. It was supposed to be a low-key event he could enjoy with the people he was close to, but it turned into something high-profile in an instant.

"Look at you, so nervous." Mikoto ruffled his hair when she heard him sigh.

"Of course I am! Lord Hokage is coming here!" said Takuma, feeling the jitters.

After living in the world for four years, his perception of many things had changed drastically. The man portrayed as a grandfather figure to Naruto and seemed to be easily accessible at the mission desk handing out D-rank missions was a military leader who controlled a vast shinobi army.

One of the most powerful men in history, and would never be found at the mission desk.

"There's no need to be stressed, Takuma," Maruboshi tried to calm him down. "Lord Hokage is not an unreasonable man; as long as you act with respect, there's nothing to worry about."

'Easy for you to say,' thought Takuma. Maruboshi had served under three different Hokage and would have been a jōnin if he didn't continue to deny promotions. He was well-acquainted, if not outright friends, with the Third Hokage.

He glanced at Might Gai, chatting with Doctor Oishi, Taro's dad, a Tokubetsu Jōnin, who had attained jōnin level skill in iryōjutsu. Taro stood beside his dad, listening to their conversation, looking utterly uninterested.

"You like him, huh? Might Gai, that is," Mikoto commented.

"Huh? Well, yes..."

Despite not being a huge fan of the source material, he enjoyed it enough to finish it, and Might Gai was one of his favourite characters. His personality was charismatic, he had a unique flair, was a genuinely nice person, and he gained his strength through pure effort and hard work.

There was nothing to dislike in the best way possible.

"Why not go ask him for advice?" said Mikoto.

"Eh, but—"

She cut him off. "Come on, talk to him before the Lord Hokage arrives. You won't have a chance after that," she urged him.

Takuma, getting pushed, walked toward Gai. In the moment, he understood the feelings of fans when they approached celebrities for pictures and autographs. He had interacted with jōnin before, but he always had a reason to do so; this felt different and made him nervous.

"Ah, Takuma. Congratulations on your success," said Doctor Oishi with a smile.

"Thank you, sir," Takuma smiled before turning to Gai. "Sir, I was wondering if I could get some advice."

"What sort of advice?" asked Gai. As a jōnin, he was used to other shinobi coming to him for advice.

"I currently have an energy imbalance condition. My physical energy levels lack behind my spiritual energy. Seeing as you are a taijutsu specialist, you must be knowledgeable about body strengthening and conditioning."

"Oh my," Doctor Oishi commented from the side.

"What should I do to bridge the gap?" Takuma asked sincerely.

"You are using weighted gear, don't you?" asked Gai, surprising him.

"Y-Yes! How did you know?"

"I could tell," said Gai before asking for more details. "You're already on the right path; just keep doing that. The key is not to get comfortable; the moment you feel half-comfortable with the burden on your body, increase the weight. Repeat the process until you reach your limit—but do not overdo it and get injured."

Takuma nodded with all the seriousness of a soldier receiving orders.

"Now, listen carefully because this is important. To get the most out of this training, you must understand there's more to it than just how much your body can bear. You have to pull the most out of your body's potential—train your speed, explosiveness, agility, flexibility, endurance, durability—hit every aspect you can as often as possible."

According to Gai, a targeted approach was better if he was training his body to suit a specific combat style. For example, focusing on speed and agility was the better option when training for a combat style that revolved around swiftness.

However, for building physical energy levels, a balanced approach was the best option to pull the most out of the body's potential.

"Another thing you can do is to use chakra. It's not as rewarding, but frankly, it gives the most when you think about how low-effort it is," said Gai with a shrug. "The more you use chakra, the more you will have of it."

"To provide some medical context," Doctor Oishi chimed in. "If you use up all your chakra every day—not enough to cause chakra exhaustion, of course—eventually your body will notice and try to give you access to more chakra to stop you from repeatedly approaching chakra exhaustion. And in your condition, it will make that possible by boosting your physical energy. Of course, it's not magic, so it won't produce physical energy out of nowhere—but it will slightly improve the results of the training and effort."

There were a dozen more factors that affected how much Takuma would be able to get out of the methods. He was young, and that meant he was still growing, which meant that he would see benefits for at least another seven to eight years—but his youth also meant that his body was underdeveloped, so he had to wait for it to mature before he could push himself past some limits.

"Finally, here's a piece of advice," said Gai. "You must learn how to use the extra power as your body grows stronger. Your body is the tool—a stronger body means a better tool—however, you're wasting it away if you don't learn how to use it properly, so understand your body's capabilities and limits—what it can or cannot do."

"I must admit, I have spent more time in the hospital than I have done on field and combat training combined, and from the looks of it, my son will spend more time behind a desk," said Doctor Oishi, ruffling patting Taro's shoulder, who looked embarrassed. "The Academy teaches the Hidden Leaf Kata. I know there are these dojos around the villages that teach different taijutsu styles—do you have a recommendation for a dojo that can teach him?"

Every Leaf shinobi knew the Hidden Leaf kata because it was taught in the academy.

Gai pursed his lips. "A kata is a philosophy or principles that guide a shinobi's combat style. It can be as simple as preferring feet over fists or something as broad as Uchiha building their style around counter-offence. The Hidden Leaf kata was developed as a learning platform and thus favoured balance—it was made to teach children how to use their bodies to fight. It's a splendid creation, but shinobi are supposed to change and adapt it to meet their requirements and preferences."

Takuma nodded. He learned the Hidden Leaf kata mostly from Maruboshi, which was different from what he learned in the academy as the kata had changed and developed since Maruboshi had learned it in his childhood. Moreover, Maruboshi had altered the kata into something he thought suitable for teaching Takuma—who himself had changed it to the point that it couldn't even be called the Hidden Leaf kata.

His time in the Ring had changed how he fought. If someone looked close enough, they would see the roots of the Hidden Leaf Kata, but it had become something completely different. Now, he was trying to change it even more to get rid of the bad habits that he had ingrained into his style.

"...These dojo all have their own principles. I think they have immense value in providing shinobi with something tried and tested—but ultimately, the best option is to create something custom-made that fits you like a glove. However, if you do not have time, the dojos are an option. I can suggest a few choices, but you must try out plenty to see what fits you."

Takuma, who was listening to the conversation, had a thought that he chose to voice aloud. "Do these dojo accept dojo storming?"

"They do." Gai smiled brightly. "Ah, I remember doing it a couple of times."

"You must've won," said Doctor Oishi.

"I did! A great learning experience nevertheless."

There was a hubbub in the hall. Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Third Hokage, had just walked in, two ANBU-nin flanking him on either side. He had his Hokage robe and hat on, and even though he was old, he had changed since the last time Takuma had seen him during the academy graduation. From no angle did he look like someone who could destroy the entire hall if he felt like it.

"Go on, greet him, Takuma," said Doctor Oishi.

"How do I look?" Takuma asked Taro.

"Like one badass chunin," Taro smiled.

"Perfect," said Takuma, putting on a smile.

Takuma walked to Hiruzen, who seemed to recognise him instantly, which was surprising and flattering at the same time.

"Congratulations, Chunin Takuma. It's nice to meet you again; the last time I saw you, you weren't in a condition to talk," Hiruzen said, flashing a smile.

"Thank you, Lord Hokage," Takuma bowed politely, remembering Maruboshi's words. "I never got to thank you for looking after me all that time ago."

He had fainted into a coma when he realised that he couldn't access his chakra during his early days of training with Maruboshi. It had put him out for a week, and during that time, Hiruzen, who happened to be at the hospital, had come to look at him due to his connection with Maruboshi and had even requested a Yamanaka to look at him to see if it would help.

"Think nothing of it," said Hiruzen before nodding to Maruboshi, who had just been chatting with Anko just before he arrived. "You are lucky to have him as a teacher."

"I am," Takuma agreed wholeheartedly. "I am blessed when it comes to people who have taught me so much."

"Indeed. To have Lady Mikoto as a teacher is something to be envious about."

"I think I used up all my luck having her as my teacher," Takuma smiled. "But it's just not her. I learned so much from Chunin Iruka when I was a new genin, and Chunin Anko looked after me when we were deployed to the Land of Frost. I wouldn't be where I am right now if not everyone here."

"Very good, it's important to recognise people dear to you," Hiruzen nodded approvingly. "How do you feel? Thrilled to be a chunin?"

"Yes, sir. Excited about what's next," said Takuma. "What was it like for you when you became chunin?"

"Oh, I don't remember; it's been such a long time. This place sure wasn't there when I got promoted," Hiruzen chuckled, pointing at the extravagant hall. "Hmm... but I remember taking things too seriously back then not to disappoint my teacher, who had just become the Second Hokage. Looking back at it, I should've enjoyed my youth more."

He patted Takuma on his shoulder. "Work is undoubtedly important, but don't forget to live and enjoy life."

"Yes, sir. I will remember that."

"Good, good." Hiruzen smiled, his words and actions resembling those of a grandfather who was wholeheartedly happy for his grandson's success. It was heartwarming.

The ceremony proceeded smoothly. With the Hokage attending, there was no way anyone else was performing the ceremony. Gai happily stepped aside, and Takuma got to have the Third Hokage put a flak jacket on him while the people who mattered in his life watched and applauded.

The ceremony itself was short and was over within ten minutes. Takuma thought Hiruzen would leave soon after, but he stayed another half hour conversing with everyone who had come, which was exciting for many who didn't think they would ever get to talk to the Hokage.

Takuma had heard that Hokage were people who were bigger than life, but seeing it firsthand was a different experience. Hiruzen engaged everyone in conversation; his depth of knowledge was impressive, and his ability to make everyone smile and have them impressed with what he said was spectacular.

He made everyone feel he was truly interested in them and their discussion. Takuma saw Hiruzen's charm, which had allowed him to hold his position for a long time, and it was something else.

Alas, it was time for Hiruzen to leave and Takuma was going to see him out. They walked side by side across the hall, and as they approached the exit, Hiruzen spoke to him.

"Walk with me, Chunin Takuma."

———

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Chapitre 324: CH_9.9 (324)

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———

Takuma was nervous to be alone in the Hokage's company. Even the ANBU guards had fallen behind to give them space.

"I am aware that you will be joining the ANBU soon," said Hiruzen.

Takuma wasn't supposed to discuss his employment with ANBU with anyone, and if asked, he would have outright denied it, but this was the Hokage speaking. There was no use hiding it, especially since lying to him was a crime written into the law.

Takuma nodded. "Yes, sir."

"Are you ready for the challenge? Being an ANBU-nin is not easy."

"I'm prepared to do my best."

"What if your best is not enough?"

"Then I'll just have to grow my best until it's enough."

Hiruzen chuckled. "That's a good attitude. I was surprised when I found out you had joined the ANBU. I believed you would stay with the Police Force because of your relationship with Lady Uchiha."

"I'm grateful to Lady Uchiha for all she has done for me, but my time at the Police Force has come to a natural end. It's time for me to do something else if I want to grow. In that sense, the opportunity from ANBU came at the perfect time."

Takuma chose his words carefully. He couldn't insult his previous employers openly or be blunt and say that he joined ANBU because they were the highest bidder, but he also didn't lie completely; he cared about the Hidden Leaf village and the Land of Fire because they were his home, and as a citizen, it was his duty to keep his home safe. He wanted to survive the future, but what good was survival if he couldn't live in peace and enjoy his life—and a safe home was vital for that to happen. He also wasn't eager to return to the Police Force after everything that had happened; the idea of going through the awkward readjustment stage there didn't appeal to him

"Did you factor in that working for ANBU will bring you closer to ROOT?" Hiruzen asked a startling question.

"Pardon?" said Takuma, not expecting the question.

"I assume you are aware of the ROOT."

"... Yes, sir, I do."

"You've had a surprising number of run-ins with them these past two years. They've even tried to kill you outright once. Joining ANBU could potentially have you face them more in the future. And of course, they might target you once again."

Takuma had, of course, considered it, but it was one of those things he couldn't say to anyone, much less the Hokage. He didn't want to avoid them because he wanted revenge. Coming into contact with ROOT was one of the biggest reasons he joined ANBU in the first place.

"They will target me regardless," Takuma replied after a pause. "I don't believe in running away from a problem. Given time, it'll follow you wherever you go. Better to tear it out at the root before that can happen. I'm sure ANBU is working hard to make that come true one day, and if they allow me, I will do my best to contribute. Eliminating the ROOT would be best for the village."

When the Hokage was concerned, regardless of the situation, the correct answer was to put the village front and forward before anything else. Despite the risk of being perceived as a kiss-ass, it was undoubtedly the safest option compared to speaking freely.

"Do you hate the ROOT?" asked Hiruzen.

"It would be strange not to. I was in the hospital for months and had to relearn how to walk. They also made my time in the Land of Hot Water much harder than it needed to be. When you combine that with their crimes and defection from the village, to say I hate them wouldn't be wrong."

"The Steam-Frost war. I heard from Chunin Anko that you were assigned to her team."

"Yes, we were under Jōnin Toridasu's command."

"Toridasu," Hiruzen smiled. "That old man continues to remain active, even in old age. I must remember to invite him to a meal when he returns."

"He would be delighted," said Takuma.

"I was glad to see Anko enjoying herself as well. Her life had been difficult because of that foolish student of mine," Hiruzen sighed, the shadows of his hat aged him ten years for a moment.

"Orochimaru, the Snake Sannin," said Takuma, thinking about one of the most heinous people in the world.

Hiruzen nodded with a hum. "His actions hurt everyone close to him; she was perhaps hurt the most. So, I was happy to see her enjoying herself back there. She praised you quite a lot, which is rare for her if she feels uncomfortable about the person. I'm glad to see her open her heart to others again."

"She will grow now that she's joined T&I," said Takuma. He couldn't remember if Anko was a Chunin or Tokubetsu Jōnin in the source material, but considering that Orochimaru trained her and experimented on her, her potential had to be great.

"That's all I wish for her," said Hiruzen with a smile.

"Lord Hokage, I've saved my mission points, and now that I'm a chunin, I will choose a B-rank jutsu when I get the opportunity. May I get some advice on how to improve my skills with ninjutsu," Takuma asked. After Gai, he gained some confidence in asking for help.

"I like your spirit," Hiruzen said approvingly. "Do you know your primary affinity?"

"It's Earth Release, sir. However, I believe Water Release is just behind, if not equal to it," Takuma replied eagerly.

Hiruzen remained silent for an extended moment; his expression suggested that he was deep in thought.

"Earth and Water, you say," he finally spoke. "A handle over two natures at your age is impressive."

"Thank you, sir. I'm currently more skilled with Water Release as most of my frequent jutsu are Water Release." Takuma had much more practice with Water Release due to his frequent use of Eight Tentacles, Wild Water Wave, and Water Clone jutsu, along with the recent addition of the Spirit Water Wave. He had not used Dome and Earth Tremor Sense jutsu all that often.

"Are you aware you can't just learn B-rank jutsu by reading the scroll?" asked Hiruzen.

"I am.," said Takuma. "B-rank ninjutsu and beyond required advanced chakra training before using the ninjutsu itself."

"My first recommendation is not to rush through the advanced chakra training. Take your time, truly understand what you're doing, and perfect it before you move on," said Hiruzen as he stroked his goatee. "People who try to rush through advanced chakra training are harming themselves. If you do it properly, not only will your skill with lower-rank jutsu improve, but you will also have an easier time learning the B-rank jutsu itself. Building that foundation is perhaps the most important thing as it gives the largest benefit."

Takuma nodded. Some part of him needed to hear that. The allure of B-rank jutsu was strong; he recalled Bishop using his Fire Release B-rank jutsu, which had boosted his power by such a large amount. Even though Takuma had emerged as the victor, it was a pyrrhic victory, with himself being seriously injured while Bishop had only fainted from chakra exhaustion.

When combined with his worries about the future—he could see himself rushing through the advanced chakra training to 'officially' add a B-rank jutsu to his arsenal. But with Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Professor, the master of all five basic natures saying to focus on fundamentals, he would do just that.

"My second piece of advice would be to experience the two elements. You must learn more about earth and water. Learn about their characteristic quirks and their part in the world. Many ninjutsu were created from inspiration taken from observing their element in nature. The better you understand earth and water, the better you will understand Earth and Water Release."

"...So, just observe water and earth? Like water from a tap and the earth all around me?" Takuma asked with a frown. He didn't understand how that would help.

"I believe you can learn a lot about water from a running tap. But visit streams, waterfalls, ponds, seas, and oceans if possible. For earth, observe different kinds of soils and stones. How is the rocky stone of the Hokage Mountain different from softer farmland? There is so much you can learn from things you would ordinarily pay no attention to."

"Understood," said Takuma. He'd give it a shot, even if it didn't make much sense right now.

"And finally, practically speaking, knowing how to utilise the jutsu depending on the situation's requirements is perhaps just as important as anything else. You must understand the jutsu at a high level and possess the skill to gain the freedom to adapt it to the situation," said Hiruzen with a strong insistence in his words. "I understand that ANBU gives their operatives open access to their jutsu archives, and I'm not telling you to hold off on taking advantage of it—but don't fall into the trap of believing that learning more jutsu is the path.

"A shinobi who has mastery over one jutsu would often be more dangerous than one who has half-heartedly learned ten," said Hiruzen with a wise smile.

Takuma couldn't agree more. His experience with Eight Tentacles made him understand the importance of practical application. Learning to cast the jutsu meant nothing if he couldn't use it effectively.

"Thank you for your time and knowledge, Lord Hokage," Takuma said, bowing.

"I have one more question from my side. I am curious: what is the 'Will of Fire' to you, Chunin Takuma?" asked Hiruzen as they arrived at the end of their walk.

Takuma was not expecting the question. He had never thought about what 'Will of Fire' meant to him. He knew what it meant to Hiruzen. He believed the entire village was a large family, and every Leaf shinobi with the Will of Fire loves, believes, cherishes, and fights to protect the village, as previous generations had done before them.

It was what allowed Leaf shinobi to overcome the odds and build character for the sake of protecting something they held dear.

He gazed at the path they had just walked, which led to the hall where people had come to share in his happiness. He remembered the pure joy on their faces as he received the flak jacket from the Hokage. Seeing him happy made them happy, and seeing them happy made him happy.

"...It's my desire to protect the people I love," Takuma replied.

He did not like this world. It was not like the world he had grown up in—or perhaps it was the same, but he had been shielded from its ugliness. However, he had seen it now, and he did not like it. When he arrived in this world, he felt like a foreigner who did not belong; it had been four years since then, and he didn't think that had changed—but it had certainly improved, and it was because of the people.

Because of the genuine connections that made him feel like he belonged.

He wanted to protect them.

His goal had been to survive the future, but it would be meaningless if these people weren't there with him.

"I will not let them see harm," said Takuma. They were all shinobi, so danger was part of their lives, but he was willing to do whatever was asked from him. "I don't know if I'm right; maybe that definition will change in the future, but right now, that's what the Will of Fire means to me."

He looked at Hiruzen, who was smiling gently.

"That's more than enough," he said.

———

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