Chapter 122: A Quest for Strength and Trust
Malik stood outside the grand entrance of the Hokage's office, the weight of his recent experiences with the old gods still fresh in his mind. He knew he needed to share his new insights with Tsunade, but the idea of facing her alone felt daunting. "I don't feel like talking to that woman alone today," he thought to himself, sending his mind and voice to his house in search of a companion.
Looking around for a moment, his senses found someone perfect. In Rika's bedroom, a blend of comfort and functionality surrounded her. The walls were painted in muted tones of gray and black, matching her stealth cloak hanging neatly on a hook by the door. The room was well-organized, reflecting her strategic planning skills. Her combat gear was meticulously arranged, with daggers on a wall-mounted rack and flash bombs in a secured drawer. It was a space that screamed preparation and discipline, but with personal touches—cherished mementos and gifts from Malik and others, hinting at the life beyond her warrior's exterior.
Rika herself was seated on the edge of her bed, her sharp blue eyes scanning a map spread out before her. Her fingers traced potential routes, strategizing for unseen threats. She methodically cleaned and sharpened one of her daggers, the process almost meditative.
"Yo!" Malik's voice echoed throughout the room, jolting Rika from her focus. Her instincts flared up, but she quickly reminded herself where she was and recognized the voice.
"My Lord," she responded, unsure where to look.
"That's cute, but there's never a need for titles. Anyway, are you busy? I could use a companion for a while if you're up for it. But if not, I can find someone else."
"No," Rika replied, already grabbing her gear. "Where?"
A tether of energy linked them, and the information popped into her mind.
"I'm on my way," she said, the efficiency of her movements a testament to her training and dedication.
Despite the seriousness of her tasks, there was a sense of peace in her room. It was Rika's sanctuary, a place where she could focus, strategize, and prepare. It was here that she was not just a bodyguard, but a protector, a servant, and a loyal friend.
When Rika arrived at the Hokage's office, Malik was already waiting. He turned to her with a grateful smile. "Thank you for coming, Rika."
She shrugged slightly, her demeanor calm and professional. "It is my job to watch you. Lady Shisui would be upset if you traveled alone anyway."
"Don't remind me," Malik said with a sigh. "Anyway, let's go. I feel like we'll be here for a while."
As they walked through the gates of the Hokage's office, Malik couldn't help but glance at Rika, admiring her form. Rika was a petite yet powerful woman, embodying a unique blend of strength and agility. Her compact and muscular build was a testament to her physical prowess, designed for speed and quick reflexes. Her hair, a striking mix of red and black, was cut short and styled into spiky tufts that added to her fierce and determined persona. Her sharp blue eyes missed nothing, always alert to her surroundings.
Rika typically wore a tactical uniform similar to Tsubaki's, a testament to her role as a bodyguard. The uniform was practical and efficient, equipped with various weapons and tools that she expertly wielded. Despite her tough exterior, there was a certain grace to Rika, a subtle reminder of the woman beneath the warrior. Her presence commanded respect, not just for her skills, but also for her unwavering loyalty and dedication.
"You know," Malik commented, trying to lighten the mood, "you really are something else, Rika. Strong, beautiful, deadly—all the qualities a man could admire." He grinned, hoping to elicit a smile or at least a reaction.
Rika, however, remained stoic, not quite understanding the joke. "Thank you, my lord," she replied, her tone as flat as ever.
The awkward silence that followed made Malik chuckle nervously. "Tough crowd," he muttered under his breath as they entered the Hokage's office.
Tsunade was seated behind her desk, piles of paperwork surrounding her. Despite the administrative burdens of her role, she maintained an air of strength and authority that was both reassuring and intimidating. Her eyes narrowed slightly as Malik entered, a clear indication that while she tolerated him, their relationship was still very much a work in progress.
"I don't know why anyone would ever want to be Hokage," Malik thought to himself, "That amount of paperwork should be illegal. I only want to see that much paper if someone is shaking their booty meat in front of me and I'm making it rain."
"Malik," Tsunade greeted, setting aside a stack of reports. "I trust your journey to the temple was fruitful?"
Malik nodded, taking a seat opposite her, with Rika standing behind him like a silent sentinel. "It was more than I expected, your Grace. The temple was incredible, and I received a blessing from Aethyra herself."
Tsunade's interest piqued, though she maintained her guarded demeanor. "A blessing? Tell me more."
"Well, let me set the scene for you." Malik took a deep breath and began to describe the ancient temple. "The temple was an ancient and forgotten place, lit by thousands of candles. There were several doors and three pools of water, each with a different color—blue, green, and yellow. The largest pool was in the center, the second halfway up a giant altar, and the last at the top, underneath the most detailed statue of Aethyra."
He continued, "Aethyra is a deity that embodies both wisdom and strength. She is represented as a creature that is a mix of an owl and an elephant. The owl half symbolizes wisdom, knowledge, and the ability to navigate through darkness. The elephant half represents strength, resilience, and a strong memory."
Tsunade listened intently, her fingers steepled under her chin. "And the blessing you received?"
Malik explained, "The blessing is called Candle in the Dark: Illuminator of Hidden Paths. Unlike a skill, I can't activate it at will. It works on its own, revealing important events, valuable items, and hidden potential in people around me. It also helps guide others and catalyze change, but it comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities."
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, contemplating. "That's a remarkable boon, Malik. Why did you want to share this with me?"
Malik smiled gently, trying not to roll his eyes at the woman who could easily slap his head clean off. "Because I promised to keep you updated on my progress. And also, I thought this blessing might be of interest to you, given your role as Hokage and your own immense abilities."
Tsunade nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. "As the Fifth Hokage, I need to be strong. I was hoping this boon might work on me, too."
Malik nodded. "Tsunade-sama, your skills are already unparalleled. You're a descendant of the Senju and Uzumaki clans, famed as the world's strongest kunoichi and greatest medical-nin. You have incredible abilities, from the Transformation Technique to the Creation Rebirth, and your chakra control is unmatched. But this blessing... it might offer something more, something different."
Malik paused, his curiosity piqued. "Do you... have Sage Mode?"
Tsunade's gaze sharpened, and Malik could sense a slight irritation in her voice. "It makes me uncomfortable that you know so much about me, especially because I know so little about you. No, I don't have Sage Mode, even though I have a contract with the Slugs. Does that answer satisfy you?"
"Why?" Malik asked, genuinely curious. He noticed Rika tensing slightly, clearly not comfortable with the direction of the conversation, but Malik pressed on.
The Hokage's office was bathed in the warm glow of the morning sun, casting long shadows on the floor. Tsunade sat behind her desk, her gaze steady on the young man sitting before her.
"You asked why I don't have Sage Mode," Tsunade began, her voice calm and measured. "It's not a simple answer, but I'll try to explain."
She leaned back in her chair, her fingers lightly tapping on the polished wood of her desk. "Firstly, Sage Mode requires intense training and comes with significant risks. It's a powerful technique, but not without its dangers. I've always believed in balancing power with caution."
Her eyes flickered to the window, watching as the last rays of the sun grew behind the mountains. "Secondly, each of us has unique abilities and characteristics. My focus has always been on medical ninjutsu and my strength, amplified by my Byakugo Seal. Sage Mode, while powerful, might not have been necessary or fitting for my abilities."
Tsunade turned her gaze back to Malik, her expression serious. "Lastly, being Hokage comes with many responsibilities. The time and dedication required to learn Sage Mode... it's a luxury I couldn't afford."
She leaned forward, her eyes meeting his again. "Remember, power comes in many forms. It's not about having every technique, but mastering the ones that suit you best." She smiled to herself and added, "Someone like Orochimaru would never understand, and someone like Jiraiya, with his freedom and time, it makes me sick. I've never been one to wander off and go on some stupid adventure."
With that, Tsunade leaned back in her chair, a sense of finality in her words. The room fell silent, save for the soft rustle of papers and the distant sounds of the village settling for the day to come.
Malik listened carefully, understanding the weight behind her words. "Fair enough," he said, acknowledging her reasoning.
Tsunade waved him off, "I know that my reasons might be the death of me one day, but if I can cheat with your 'boon' and skip the time needed, I would."
Malik knew this was true because he had seen the Naruto show, so he technically knew a good amount of future events. He knew that her power might not be enough. "Damn... Well... fair enough."
He paused, looking directly into her eyes. "Tsunade, I don't know how this blessing truly works, but I'm going to do everything in my power to help you." He paused again, rapping his fingers on her desk, thinking.
"Allow me to follow you around today. Maybe the blessing needs to connect with someone, or perhaps we need to experience something together. What I do know is that I need you to trust me."
Tsunade's eyes softened slightly, but there was still a hint of skepticism. After a moment, she reached across the desk to take Malik's hands. "Alright, Malik. I trust you enough to see where this goes. Let's see where this journey takes us."
Tsunade then felt something link with her. "This might help," Malik said, creating a Soul Link with her.
Tsunade's heartbeat started to rise as she felt his essence within her. "Ask before you do that to someone, ya brat!"
As the morning unfolded, Malik shadowed Tsunade, observing her in her daily duties. They visited the hospital, where she demonstrated her unparalleled medical skills, healing severe injuries with her Mystical Palm Jutsu and overseeing the training of new medical-nin. Malik watched in awe, hoping the blessing might trigger and enhance her abilities further.
Not wanting to be outdone and because he was a little bored, Malik also healed people.
"I spend my life learning how to heal and help people, and you just walk in here and wave your hand... this shouldn't piss me off so much," Tsunade said, watching him.
"What you are doing is always going to be more impressive than what I'm doing. Plus, if you decide to keep the link long enough, you might get my healing skill," he said, winking at her. Tsunade was "strangely" not amused.
Next, they moved to a training ground where Tsunade showcased her monstrous strength, demonstrating techniques like the Heavenly Foot of Pain and the Heavenly Spear Foot. Each move was precise and powerful, leaving Malik amazed at her prowess.
"She is very strong," Rika said to him as they watched.
"Yes, yes she is," Malik answered.
Throughout the day, Malik sensed a subtle shift in the atmosphere. The blessing seemed to be working in the background, but he felt like he needed more.
Malik smiled. "Your strength and wisdom are already formidable, but with this blessing, I think we could find something 'more interesting' with it."
In their free time, they made sure to stop by a restaurant. Malik, of course, bought the place, hopped behind the counter, and started to cook for the entire restaurant, including the staff.
"For the next hour or so, all food and drinks are on me," Malik shouted to the cheers of people who enjoyed free food.
"I was going to make you pay for the meal anyway," Tsunade said, reaching behind the counter and grabbing three bottles of sake.
As the day turned to evening, they returned to the Hokage's office. Tsunade looked at Malik with a slight newfound respect and appreciation. "Thank you, Malik. Today has been enlightening. This blessing might be just what we need to strengthen the village further. Also, I have to admit you aren't the worst person to spend a day with either."
Malik nodded. "I'm happy to help, Tsunade-sama. And remember, this is just the beginning. There are more old gods and temples out there. Each blessing could bring us closer to unlocking even greater power and wisdom. But we can worry about all of that later."
Tsunade waved him off, her tone firm. "Alright, Malik. Go and find those blessings. But don't forget to take care of yourself too."
He smiled at her. "Thanks, but I truly have no idea where they are. It was luck that led me to the first temple."
Tsunade watched him carefully, sensing a shift in his demeanor. Malik stood up, stretching his limbs as if preparing for something strenuous. "More importantly, I feel something—a burning in my chest."
With that, Malik began to transform into his Flamingold Incubus form. His skin took on a molten, golden hue, with flames flickering across his body like a living inferno. His eyes glowed with an otherworldly intensity, and his wings, made of pure energy, unfurled from his back, radiating heat and light.
"So, it's working?" Tsunade asked.
"Not fully no but I know you are a betting woman," He smiled at her, "Let's just force our way through!"
Tsunade stared at him, her eyes wide with a mix of awe and caution. "That probably isn't a good or smart idea. What if...?"
"Chill, I know it's crazy, but I'm leaving for the Land of Snow soon, and I know I'll be away for a while dealing with that. Plus, if the worst comes knocking, I can just bring you back to life—no big deal. Now, are you down with the sickness or not?"
Tsunade took a deep breath, her face determined. "...Screw it. What do I need to do?"