"Who is it?" Jiraiya inquired, his curiosity piqued.
Uzumaki Kushina mirrored his interest, her gaze shifting to Minato. "Jiraiya sensei," Minato began, his expression resolute, "remember Aizen?" Jiraiya's mind raced, piecing together memories. After a moment, recognition dawned. "Aizen? The young man who graduated early with you two years ago? While he does possess talent, he's currently assigned to the medical department, isn't he?"
Jiraiya's brow furrowed. Medical-nin were considered precious resources, even those stationed at the frontlines. They remained within the medical camps, akin to a field hospital, as they were prime targets for both sides during conflicts. "That's true, but Jiraiya sensei, Aizen isn't just a skilled medical ninja," Minato countered, his voice firm. "He's also a genius ninja with exceptional combat prowess. With the Third Hokage's approval, I believe we can make this work." A glint of strategic thinking flickered in his eyes.
Jiraiya chuckled. "Minato, you've grown quite shrewd these past years." Minato sheepishly returned the smile. In truth, there was another crucial factor behind Konoha's agreement to Jiraiya's team reshuffle: cultivating the village's younger generation. The war's intensity had waned, signaling its approach to an end. This presented an opportunity for Konoha's leadership to send promising young ninjas out to gain experience, with particular focus on nurturing their exceptional talents. Uzumaki Kushina is the prime example. Integrating into a veteran team allows young ninjas to hone their skills alongside experienced mentors. Not only does this strengthen their individual abilities, but it also provides opportunities for combat experience that can bolster their future advancement.
However, this approach depends on a key element: a capable and ideally senior team leader to provide protection. A rookie venturing into a warzone's final stages faces significant challenge without such guidance. Finding someone like Jiraiya, whose strength is on par with Kage-level, and who's willing to mentor young ninjas, is a rare privilege. Therefore, this training opportunity is invaluable. Minato, naturally, wouldn't want an outsider to benefit from such a chance. As the saying goes, 'charity begins at home.'
Jiraiya's observation about Minato being 'careful' makes sense. But Minato likely believes the war's concluding phase presents minimal risk, practically a guaranteed way to earn credit. With Jiraiya around, the danger factor seems negligible. After all, in the ninja world, absolute safety is a fantasy. Yet, after careful consideration, Jiraiya finds Aizen to be an increasingly suitable candidate. Familiarity with the team and impressive strength are definite advantages. Moreover, Aizen's expertise as a top-tier medical ninja could prove invaluable in critical situations.
Another factor influencing Jiraiya's decision was Aizen's lineage. As Tsunade's disciple and, by extension, Aizen wouldn't be considered an outsider. Jiraiya's grin confirmed Minato's suspicions. The plan was practically set in stone. Uzumaki Kushina, ever the picture of quiet support, remained silent throughout the exchange. "Alright, I'll discuss this with the Third Hokage later. Let's wrap up today's training," Jiraiya finally declared, a smile playing on his lips. "Yes, Jiraiya-sensei!" Minato responded enthusiastically, a spark of anticipation igniting within him. Two years had passed, Minato couldn't help but wonder how much Aizen's strength had grown. Their last meeting, a fleeting encounter during one of his brief visits back to the village, had been solely dedicated to battlefield updates. They hadn't had the chance to spar.
Minato's feelings towards Aizen were complex. On one hand, he saw Aizen as a best friend, a brother. On the other hand, he viewed him as a formidable opponent, one of the strongest he'd encounter on his path to becoming a powerful ninja. And perhaps not just one of the strongest. An unsettling feeling lingered within him. A nagging intuition that Aizen's strength harbored hidden depths. Beyond the desire to give his friend an opportunity to shine, Minato yearned to gauge Aizen's true capabilities.
If Aizen were present, he'd undoubtedly unleash a torrent of sarcastic gratitude. As the afternoon sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and red, the medical department bustled with activity nearing the end of the workday."Captain, we're heading out first!" A chorus of laughter filled a laboratory as four medical-nin girls in white coats teased a twelve-year-old boy. These girls, nearing fifteen or sixteen years old, created a rather humorous atmosphere. "Sure, go ahead. I'll finish up this last task," Aizen chuckled.
"Alright, Captain's the best!"
"You can enjoy a relaxing shower and early night tonight!"
"I wanna marry the Captain when I grow up!"
"Haha! You shameless flirt, the Captain's just a kid! Maybe in the future!"
"That's the point! It's the future I'm talking about!" Amidst the playful banter and the girls departure, Aizen couldn't help but curve his lips into a wry smile. A year ago, he'd became the leader of his medical team, a position equivalent to a squad leader in the military. It's worth noting that regardless of rank, from squad leader to sub-captain or even troop leader, everyone is addressed as "Captain" by their subordinates. Troop leaders, however, hold a more prestigious position within Konohagakure, and are generally addressed with more respectful titles.
As a young leader, Aizen enjoyed a certain level of privilege compared to his early days in the department. He could delegate tasks to his team while discreetly pursuing his own hidden agenda. "This life is certainly peaceful. Minato and the others are probably still mixed up in bloody battles at this very moment... Ah, while I wouldn't trade this comfortable lifestyle, who says medical-nin can't contribute on the battlefield?" Aizen leisurely brewed himself a cup of tea, a sly smile creeping across his face as he savored the taste. It was a delightful irony – enjoying a comfortable life while secretly celebrating in the chaos.
Suddenly, the laboratory door creaked open, revealing the imposing figure of Hiruko. He held a transfer order signed by the Hokage and spoke with a serious demeanor. "Aizen, by order of the Hokage, you are hereby transferred to the newly formed Jiraiya squad. Report to Jiraiya-sama tomorrow morning, and prepare to depart for the Land of Rain battlefield that afternoon."
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