The rewards were disappointingly minimal, and Tatsuma couldn't help but deduce the underlying reasons. First and foremost, the collaboration with Minato Namikaze on this challenge seemed to diminish the accolades. Furthermore, the glaring difference in strength between Tatsuma and Sakumo resulted in what could only be described as an opportunistically derived victory.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Sakumo had voluntarily acknowledged Tatsuma's triumph, rendering the match somewhat incomplete. The amalgamation of these factors contributed to Tatsuma's meager rewards following his hard-fought victory over Sakumo.
Despite having a hunch about the reasons behind the modest rewards, Tatsuma couldn't shake off a pervasive sense of discomfort. After all, the battle against Sakumo had proven to be far more perilous than the enduring quality of Minato, akin to facing a high-quality wagyu beef that consistently delivers satisfaction with little effort.
If Tatsuma hadn't possessed prior knowledge about the infamous "One Thousand Years of Death," his chastity might not have been so miraculously preserved. Adding to the ordeal, he had endured a formidable kick from Sakumo earlier, leaving his ribs still pulsating with pain.
The tumultuous emotions swirling within him found their way onto Tatsuma's visage. Hiruzen, observing the subtle expressions of discomfort crossing Tatsuma's face, cast a disapproving glance at Sakumo.
Unbeknownst to Hiruzen, the intricate turmoil within Tatsuma's psyche remained hidden from his perception. Even as the Hokage, when startled by Sakumo's Secret Taijutsu, he had felt a twinge of phantom pain during Sakumo's demonstration. One could only imagine the intensity of Tatsuma's firsthand encounter, nearly enduring the brunt of it all.
With a hint of remorse, Hiruzen directed his gaze toward Tatsuma and Minato, expressing, "Tatsuma, Minato, both of you demonstrated exceptional skill. In time, I'm confident you will evolve into formidable ninjas dedicated to safeguarding the village."
Despite the praise from Hiruzen, Minato, who should have been elated, harbored residual unease stemming from the recent "close call." He responded with a somewhat absentminded nod.
Observing Minato's lingering distress, Hiruzen felt a heightened sense of regret and continued, "Let's conclude your training for today. You're both still young, and subjecting yourselves to overly strenuous exercises isn't suitable. How about this? I'll treat you to a barbecue, and afterward, Sakumo can guide you in acquiring new ninja tools."
"Lord Hokage, we—"
Tatsuma hesitated, reluctant to draw excessive attention given their current status and abilities. Acknowledging the potential drawbacks, he was about to voice his reservations when Hiruzen interjected, proposing, "As a compromise, how about refraining from divulging the unconventional Ninjutsu techniques of my subordinates?"
Realizing the diplomatic nature of the suggestion, Tatsuma understood it would be impolite to decline further. With a nod and a polite smile, he responded, "You're very gracious, Hokage-sama."
As for the title "sama" Tatsuma didn't perceive it as implying subservience. To him, it held a resemblance to addressing a boss, supervisor, or manager in his previous life, devoid of any implications of inferiority.
That night, Tatsuma returned to his modest apartment, having savored a hearty meal—his first substantial meat intake since arriving in this unfamiliar world. Laden with several sets of brand-new ninja tools, he reflected on the invaluable additions to his arsenal.
While the cost of ninja tools was a considerable expense for him, they were mere commonplace consumables for a seasoned Jonin like Sakumo. The set he received wasn't limited to the basics, such as Kunai, Shuriken, and Senbon; it aimed to elevate his arsenal to a new level.
Included in the set were Fuma Shuriken, Giant Shuriken, Sasumata (a distinctive pole weapon with two prongs), Ninja Blades, Concealed Blades, Chain Mail, Ninja Boots, Gloves, and more. Tatsuma marveled at the array, realizing that if not for his and Minato's intervention, there might have been even more exotic and specialized ninja tools in the mix.
The existing array of ninja tools had already captivated Tatsuma's eyes, some even managing to surprise him. Take the chain mail, for instance—in his previous life, influenced by manga, he had envisioned it as some kind of fishing net. Now, experiencing its solidity and lightness firsthand, he marveled at its true qualities.
Outside the Hokage's office, Hiruzen observed Sakumo and inquired, "What are your impressions of those two youngsters?"
Pausing in his attempt to change clothes, Sakumo halted at the question. After a moment of reflection, he responded, "They possess Jiraiya's infectious enthusiasm and Orochimaru's measured restraint, coupled with a remarkable mutual understanding. Complete trust binds them; they are truly exceptional youngsters."
Upon hearing Sakumo directly employ his two disciples for comparison, Hiruzen didn't take offense. Given Sakumo's seniority to both Orochimaru and Jiraiya, such a comparison was not considered disrespectful.
In fact, Sakumo's judgment resonated with Hiruzen's own assessment. The Hokage nodded and remarked, "Is Atoma the sensei for their class? Have him pay extra attention to these two youngsters."
"Yes, Lord Third."
Sakumo concurred with a nod, and Hiruzen sighed, expressing, "The Great Ninja War concluded only a few years ago, and conflicts are already resurfacing. I earnestly wish there could be more time for you and those youngsters to experience growth."
As the guardian of the Hokage, Sakumo naturally grasped the current precarious state of the ninja world. The once-present smile on his face waned, giving way to a more somber and serious countenance. He responded, "I'll go extinguish some of the sparks."
Hiruzen, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, advised, "In the end, it's merely delaying the inevitable explosion. Certain matters don't necessitate your personal intervention. Danzo has overseen the Root for quite some time; it's high time we assess his management," he added with a disapproving shake of his head.
However, as soon as Hiruzen finished speaking, a deep voice resonated from within the office, "Sarutobi, are you questioning my capabilities?!"
"Danzo? You choose this moment to make an appearance?" Seeing his old friend, Hiruzen couldn't help but sense a headache coming on. Stepping forward, Danzo sneered, "Hmph! If I hadn't come, would I simply stand by as you suppress my Shimura Clan? Using two orphans as an excuse—your methods are truly cunning, Sarutobi."
"Enough, Danzo! I am the Hokage. Return to your Root; my decisions don't require your interference."
Hiruzen was weary of clashing with Danzo and abruptly concluded the conversation. Danzo, infuriated, twitched his face, pointed accusingly at Hiruzen for a moment, and then spat out angrily, "Sarutobi, you will regret this!"
After those words, Danzo stormed off, leaving Hiruzen to return to his seat, rubbing his temples in an attempt to ease the tension. Sensing the awkwardness that lingered, Sakumo prepared to take his leave when Hiruzen unexpectedly spoke up:
"Sakumo, take a break. I need some solitude."
Sakumo nodded, saluted, and replied, "Yes, Lord Third."
...
The following day, at seven o'clock, Tatsuma and Minato, having completed their morning training, arrived at the Academy. The atmosphere was even more vibrant than the previous day, with a substantial gathering of students, new entrants, as well as ninja and prominent members of the clans—an uncommon spectacle.
Observing the new students joyfully holding hands with their parents, Minato was unexpectedly struck by a sense of discomfort. Just as he grappled with these emotions, Tatsuma placed a comforting hand on Minato's shoulder and inquired, "Feeling a twinge of envy?"
After a brief contemplation, Minato nodded, allowing his genuine sentiments to surface. "Yeah," he admitted.
Tatsuma, intending to make a light-hearted comment at firt, found himself struck silent as he observed Minato's expression. Opting for a reassuring gesture, he patted Minato's shoulder and remarked, "The past is beyond our control, but we have the power to shape a future with fewer war orphans like us."
"Yeah, I'm committed to making it happen," Minato affirmed with sincerity.
Not far away, three middle-aged ninjas and three young new students gathered, their attention fixed on the duo. A ninja with a distinctive pineapple-shaped haircut spoke up:
"Are these the two kids Lord Hokage met personally yesterday? They certainly harbor impressive dreams. Shikaku, Choza, Inoichi, why don't you try to befriend them? Just be mindful of your boundaries and approach. Remember, you're all academy students, and soon-to-be ninjas of Konoha. No sense of superiority—clear?"
The kid with the distinctive pineapple-shaped hair let out a sigh and remarked, "Dad, you're always so talkative. Making friends feels like such a chore."
Ruffling his child's head, the pineapple-haired ninja responded, "A bit of effort now can spare you many challenges later on. Think beyond the moment."
"Understood."
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