The next day, Reiki returned to the hospital cautiously. His chakra, physical strength, and mental stamina were all significantly depleted, but he needed to stay alert. While full-hand treatment could restore his spirit, and potions could rejuvenate chakra and physical strength, Reiki preferred natural recovery to better understand his limits and grow stronger. It was why he avoided using self-recovery techniques unless absolutely necessary.
"What do you think about everything that happened?" Tsunade's voice broke the silence as Reiki stepped into the courtyard.
"Teacher," Reiki said, jogging over, "what are you talking about?"
"Aren't you going to tell me about your last mission?" Tsunade asked, feigning irritation.
"Did Lord Morishita tell you?" Reiki asked with a sheepish smile. "It wasn't a big deal, really. Just some Root ninjas trying to kill Asuma. I don't know why, though. And anyway, those Root ninjas are all dead."
Tsunade didn't respond, only stared at Reiki with a serious expression.
"Okay, I did find it strange," Reiki admitted. "Danzo wouldn't normally do something like that, and even if he did, he wouldn't be so obvious. So, when those ninjas claimed they were after Asuma, I thought it might be a cover. The real target was probably me. I'm not sure why, though."
Tsunade's silence prompted Reiki to continue. "Here's what I've pieced together so far."
"Read this," Tsunade said, handing him a file.
Reiki's eyes widened when he saw Hiruzen Sarutobi's signature on the document. It was clear that the Third Hokage was deeply involved in resolving the issue. As he read, Reiki was surprised to learn that the attack hadn't been directly ordered by Danzo but had been the independent act of a Root member named Blade.
"So it's all been investigated…" Reiki murmured. "Teacher, I—"
"Be more cautious from now on," Tsunade interrupted. "And prepare thoroughly before going on missions. Don't hoard money. Invest in resources."
She handed him a long list. "Aren't you familiar with the president of the Sanada Chamber of Commerce? Reach out and have him acquire these items for you."
The list included kunai, shuriken, senbon, explosive tags, smoke bombs, poisonous mist bombs, and various recovery potions and specialized ninja tools.
"Teacher, isn't this a bit excessive?" Reiki asked hesitantly.
"It's not excessive at all," Tsunade said firmly. "I think it's essential. Contact President Sanada as soon as you can. Do you understand?"
Sensing her chakra gathering in her fist, Reiki quickly changed his tone. "Yes, I understand. Is there anything else, Teacher?"
"There are no other arrangements. Just focus on staying safe during missions. I won't keep you in the village forever. Once the decision is finalized about medical ninja joining combat units, I will personally take you on missions. I need you to be ready."
Tsunade's expression softened. She knew that one day, her student would have to navigate the world on his own. Holding him back wasn't an option.
"Understood, Teacher. Leave it to me," Reiki said with determination, pulling out a special talisman. He infused it with chakra, watching as it dissolved into ash.
"Go rest," Tsunade said, satisfied. A smile returned to her face.
"Yes, Teacher. You should get some rest, too." Reiki nodded and hurried back to his room. Once inside, he let out a long sigh of relief. He had expected a harsher reprimand, so this was a welcome outcome.
Shizune and Kurenai Yuhi were already asleep in the room. Watching them, Reiki smiled. It was clear the two girls had become close friends. Still smiling, he sat down and began refining his chakra.
---
The next morning, after his early training, Reiki found himself alone at the public training ground.
"Shisui, Kakashi, and the others are out on missions. Guy is off training with his father, and Asuma is at home. I really need someone to spar with," Reiki muttered, feeling an odd sense of loneliness. His usual training partners had grown up and moved on to more serious responsibilities, leaving him longing for the camaraderie they once shared.
"Reiki?" A familiar yet distant voice interrupted his thoughts.
He turned and saw a boy approaching. "Tanaka Riru?" Reiki said, surprised. Riru had been his classmate before he advanced to the medical ninja exam early. They hadn't spent much time together, and Reiki's memories of him were vague.
"Yes," Riru said nervously. "Reiki, do you have time? I'd like to spar with you."
"I have time!" Reiki's eyes lit up. "If any of our classmates want to spar, bring them here. I'll be here every morning when I'm not on a mission."
Reiki was energized by the idea. Though he was a 20-year-old soul in an eight-year-old's body, he often saw himself as an adult. His friendships with Shisui and others felt natural because of their maturity. But he realized he was still just a child—an eight-year-old boy. Sparring with schoolmates was the perfect way to train and bond.
Not bullying, he reassured himself. Just practice and guidance.
Three minutes later, Tanaka Riru was on the ground, panting as Reiki treated him.
"So this is what a real ninja fight feels like," Riru said, awe-struck. "School doesn't teach us enough."
"Thank you, Reiki. I'll come back tomorrow—and bring more classmates, if that's okay."
"Of course," Reiki said, smiling. "Now hurry to school. Next time, you'll be stronger."
Encouraged, Tanaka Riru ran off, and Reiki felt a newfound sense of purpose.
---
>>>>>
Up to Chapter 420 available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
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