The true mastermind behind the crystal ball surveillance was none other than Konohagakure's Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen! Intriguingly, his motives weren't focused on teenage boys, unlike his regrettable tendencies in the past.
It all stemmed from a personal matter. When Hiruzen learned his nephew was bullied and Senju Nawaki intervened, his initial instinct was to directly put a stop to it. However, upon discovering the bully was Aizen, a student from the ninja academy, Hiruzen's approach shifted.
Aizen's name piqued his curiosity. He opted not to interfere and instead dispatched a team of Anbu – elite ninja – to observe the duel. Their instructions were to intervene only if Aizen's safety was compromised.
The events that unfolded surprised Hiruzen. Not only did Aizen hold his own against the renowned Senju Nawaki, but he emerged victorious. Just as the Anbu prepared to step in and protect Nawaki, Aizen's act of kindness – rescuing his opponent – left Hiruzen even more astonished.
The camaraderie that blossomed between Aizen, Minato, Nawaki, and Fugaku after their intense battle further impressed the Hokage. "Aizen… just like his mother," Hiruzen mused, a nostalgic smile gracing his lips. He recalled a young woman, gentle yet strong-willed, much like Aizen's current demeanor.
However, a shadow crossed his expression. "Who knew a simple schoolyard scuffle would reignite tensions between the Senju and your family, Aizen? Is it fate?"
Hiruzen contemplated a past event – a secret known only to Konoha's elite – that caused a stir within the Senju clan and village leadership.
Unaware of the Hokage's scrutiny and newfound goodwill, Aizen reveled in the camaraderie while devouring a bowl of Ichiraku ramen with his newfound friends.
"Aizen, you're incredibly strong! Why keep such a low profile?" Senju Nawaki slurped through a mouthful of ramen, voicing a question that mirrored Minato and Fugaku's curiosity.
Aizen, ever prepared for such inquiries, launched into a well-rehearsed explanation. After all, anyone witnessing the disparity between his everyday persona and his combat prowess would be bewildered.
"Growing up, my dream wasn't to become a powerful ninja," Aizen fabricated seamlessly, further solidifying his carefully crafted image. "I aspired to be a medical ninja, saving lives and healing my comrades. That's why I'm not particularly interested in fighting, and I avoid showcasing my skills excessively in class."
Aizen's carefully crafted lie flowed effortlessly, solidifying his fabricated persona in the eyes of his companions.
Nobody doubts it anymore. After all, Aizen recently showcased impressive medical jutsu and knowledge.
Learning medical ninjutsu isn't a cakewalk. It takes constant effort and dedication. Those who aren't truly passionate wouldn't even bother.
"Look, Aizen," Senju Nawaki said with a sigh, shaking his head while slurping his noodles. "With your ninja talent, it's a waste to be a medical-nin. Especially your battle reflexes! They're definitely on par with Minato's!"
Minato and Fugaku nodded in agreement.
"Huh?" Aizen smirked playfully. "Nawaki, what about your big sis, Tsunade-sama? She's a medical-nin too, you know. Don't you think she packs a punch?"
Senju Nawaki choked on his noodles, remembering his sister's legendary beatdowns. He shivered involuntarily.
A single punch from her could put even an Elite Jonin on their knees...
"And besides," Aizen continued, "your grandfather, the First Hokage, wasn't just strong enough to unify the warring clans. He was also a phenomenal medical-nin. You should know this better than anyone."
This was a heavyweight example. The First Hokage, Senju Hashirama, wasn't just known for his powerful Wood Style jutsus that brought peace to the ninja world. He was also a master of medical ninjutsu.
According to Uchiha Madara, Hashirama's medical ninjutsu was so advanced, he could heal his injuries without needing hand signs.
In her prime, Tsunade hailed as the world's greatest medical-nin and the "medical saint" of the ninja world, developed a powerful jutsu at the cost of her own life - the Strength of a Hundred Technique! At best, it could be considered Hashirama's passive ability.
The moment Aizen said this, Minato and the others felt a sense of vindication. They were well-versed in the First Hokage's many accomplishments.
Yes, while most medical-nin are seen as support personnel, there are exceptions. The most prominent example being the God of Shinobi himself, Senju Hashirama.
"I guess I was a bit narrow-minded," Nawaki admitted with an embarrassed smile.
"No worries!" Aizen waved his hand dismissively.
It didn't take long to finish their ramen. After a while, once everyone was full, they said their goodbyes and headed home.
The Senju clan compound, located closest to the center of Konohagakure, was just a stone's throw away from Ichiraku Ramen...
"I'm back!"
Nawaki burst into the courtyard, brimming with energy.
"Oh, Nawaki, you're home."
A gentle voice greeted him. A beautiful figure with a blonde ponytail emerged, clad in a light blue training outfit.
"How was the combat class today? Did you beat Namikaze Minato? Hm... Nawaki, what happened to your shoulder?"
Tsunade, who was initially smiling, turned serious the moment she noticed the bandage on Nawaki's shoulder.
"This is..." Seeing his sister's stern expression, Senju Nawaki's face paled. He stammered, trying to explain himself.
"Humph, don't tell me you lost to some nobody named Aizen at the academy, Nawaki? You're truly a disgrace to the Senju clan!"
Just as Senju Nawaki was about to speak, another voice filled the air, laced with sarcasm and mockery.
However, although this sentence is mainly aimed at Senju Nawaki when the word Aizen is uttered, it contains a deep murderous intent and hostility!
.......
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