Chapter 46 - The Day Before Departure.
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The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over Konoha as the village slowly came to life. I walked through the streets with purpose, knowing that today was important. It was the day before my departure, and there were still a few things I needed to take care of. Chief among them was asking for permission to leave the village for a few months.
As I approached the Hokage's office, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I had already prepared my excuse: I would be going to a nearby village to help some relatives settle in the city. It was a simple enough story, but it would give me the freedom I needed to explore beyond Konoha and gather some crucial information.
When I reached the office, I knocked on the door and waited for a response. After a moment, I heard the Hokage's voice call out, "Come in."
I pushed the door open and stepped inside. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, sat behind his desk, his expression calm but curious as he looked up from the paperwork in front of him.
"Ruki, what brings you here this early?" he asked, setting his papers aside.
I gave a respectful bow before speaking. "Hokage-sama, I'm here to request permission to leave the village for a few months. I have some relatives in a nearby village who need help moving to the city, and I'd like to assist them."
Hiruzen studied me for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered my request. "You've been training hard, Ruki. Are you sure this is the best time for you to leave?"
"I believe it is, Hokage-sama," I replied, keeping my tone steady. "I've made significant progress, and I think this trip will give me a chance to clear my mind and come back even stronger."
The Hokage nodded slowly, as if weighing my words. After a long pause, he finally spoke. "Very well, Ruki. I trust your judgment. You have my permission to leave the village, but I expect you to return safely and continue your training as soon as you're back."
I felt a wave of relief wash over me. "Thank you, Hokage-sama. I promise I won't let you down."
With his approval, I left the office and headed towards the training grounds, where I knew Kakashi would be. Despite his age, Kakashi was already one of the most skilled shinobi I knew, and I wanted to spend some time with him before I left.
When I arrived, I found Kakashi sitting under a tree, his eyes closed as he rested. I walked up to him and lightly tapped his shoulder. His eyes snapped open, and he looked up at me, his expression serious as usual.
"Ruki, what's up?" he asked, standing up and stretching.
"I'm leaving the village for a few months," I told him, watching his reaction closely. "I need to help some relatives, but I'll be back soon."
Kakashi frowned slightly, his brows furrowing in thought. "You sure about this? The village has been quiet lately, but things can change quickly."
"I know," I replied, placing a hand on his shoulder. "But I need to do this. It's important to me, and I'll be back before you know it."
Kakashi sighed, his shoulders relaxing a bit. "Alright, just make sure you stay sharp. Don't let your guard down while you're out there."
I smiled, appreciating his concern. "I won't. Besides, I've learned from the best."
Kakashi smirked at that, his usual stoic demeanor softening slightly. "Just don't forget to keep up with your training while you're away. I expect you to come back stronger."
"Count on it," I said, giving him a light punch on the arm. "And don't get too comfortable while I'm gone. I'll be catching up to you soon enough."
With that, we spent the next hour sparring and exchanging techniques, pushing each other to our limits. It was a good way to remind ourselves of the bond we shared—a bond forged through countless battles and challenges.
As the sun began to set, we both knew it was time to wrap things up. I looked at Kakashi one last time before heading home to prepare for my journey.
"Take care of yourself, Kakashi," I said, turning to leave. "I'll see you when I get back."
Kakashi nodded, his usual serious expression returning. "You too, Ruki. Stay safe out there."
With that, I made my way home, feeling a mix of anticipation and resolve. This journey was more than just a simple trip—it was a chance to grow, to learn, and to prepare for whatever challenges lay ahead.
As I packed my belongings, I couldn't help but think about the future. There was so much uncertainty, so many unknowns. But I knew one thing for sure—I would face whatever came my way with the strength and determination that had been instilled in me by the people of Konoha.
The night was quiet as I lay down to sleep, my mind racing with thoughts of the journey ahead. Tomorrow, I would leave the village, but I knew I would carry the spirit of Konoha with me wherever I went.
And when I returned, I would be ready for whatever challenges awaited me.