Hiro laughed even harder as Tsunade's fists continued to fly, each punch aimed with deadly precision. "Old grass? That's the best you've got?" he taunted, dodging her strikes with a playful smirk.
Tsunade growled, her fists tightening. "You're dead!" she shouted, her embarrassment only adding fuel to her punches. But despite her threats, there was a slight tremble of amusement in her voice.
Hiro's grin only widened, his confidence never faltering. "You're adorable when you're angry," he teased, narrowly avoiding another fist aimed at his head.
Tsunade froze for a split second, her eyes narrowing as she caught her breath. "Adorable?!" she barked, her face now a deep shade of red. "I'll show you adorable when I break your spine!"
Before Hiro could reply, she lunged at him again with renewed energy. This time, however, he didn't dodge. Instead, he caught her wrists mid-strike, pulling her close in one swift motion. The sudden move left Tsunade off balance, and she stumbled forward, crashing into him.
For a moment, neither of them spoke. Their faces were inches apart, Tsunade's breath heavy from both the chase and her frustration. Hiro's grin softened as he looked down at her, his hands still gripping her wrists gently.
Tsunade's chest heaved as she glared up at him, her pulse racing from more than just the exertion. She hated how close they were, how her heart seemed to betray her every time she looked into those mischievous eyes.
"Let go of me," she muttered, her voice low, though the demand lacked its usual bite.
Hiro chuckled softly but loosened his grip, releasing her wrists. "As you wish, Lady Tsunade."
As soon as her hands were free, Tsunade stepped back, trying to regain her composure. But as she did, she couldn't help but notice the faint smile lingering on her lips. This was the most flustered she'd felt in years, and somehow, despite her embarrassment, she wasn't entirely angry about it.
folding her arms and turning away from him once more.
As Tsunade turned away, a low rumble echoed through the Shikkotsu Forest. The air was thick with natural energy, and Hiro glanced around. The vast forest felt alive, brimming with chakra.
Katsuya appeared before them, her large form calm and composed. "Lady Tsunade, Hiro, it is time for training to continue. The balance of natural energy is delicate," she said softly.
Tsunade quickly straightened, her expression serious. "Of course. Let's get started." Her tone was professional, as though their earlier banter hadn't happened.
Hiro raised an eyebrow at her sudden change but kept quiet, sensing that she wanted to keep things formal in front of Katsuya. He walked toward the center of the training ground, stretching his arms.
"Focus on absorbing the natural energy," Tsunade said coolly. "Too much, and you'll turn to stone. Katsuya will guide you."
"Yes, Lady Tsunade," Hiro replied, unable to resist a slight smirk.
Tsunade shot him a sharp look, clearly signaling him to drop the teasing. "Stay focused," she said.
Katsuya observed quietly, sensing some tension but choosing not to comment. "Hiro, empty your mind and let nature's energy flow through you. I will help guide it."
Hiro nodded, sitting cross-legged as he closed his eyes, focusing on the flow of energy around him. Tsunade watched silently, arms crossed, maintaining her distance and composure.
Minutes passed as Hiro began to feel the energy shift, his chakra slowly syncing with the natural energy surrounding him.
As Hiro sat still, his breathing became steady, and he could feel the natural energy swirling around him, gradually merging with his chakra. Katsuya's presence guided the process, ensuring the balance was maintained.
Tsunade, watching from a short distance, kept her expression neutral. Despite the earlier tension between them, she was genuinely impressed with how quickly Hiro was adapting.
His control over chakra had always been remarkable, and now, with the added challenge of sage training, he was showing even more potential.
Katsuya's calm voice broke the silence. "Good. You're starting to absorb it correctly. Now, let it flow, but don't force it. Patience is key."
Hiro nodded slightly, his eyes still closed. He could feel the energy within him expanding, filling every part of his body, making him more aware of his surroundings.
The natural energy heightened his senses, and for a brief moment, he felt completely connected to the forest, as if every tree, every leaf, was breathing with him.
Tsunade shifted slightly, her gaze focused on Hiro. She was still trying to act as though everything was normal between them, but inside, her thoughts were conflicted.
Katsuya spoke again, sensing a shift in Hiro's chakra. "You're doing well, but remember, balance is fragile. One misstep, and the energy will overwhelm you."
Hiro's brow furrowed, but he remained calm, controlling the flow carefully. His concentration was unbroken.
Minutes turned into what felt like hours, and finally, Katsuya nodded approvingly. "You've done well for today. The natural energy is settling within you."
Hiro opened his eyes slowly, a faint glow lingering for a second before fading. He stood up, slightly light-headed but otherwise steady. "That felt... different," he said, stretching his arms.
Tsunade nodded but kept her distance, her voice neutral. "Good progress. But don't get overconfident—it'll only get harder from here."
Tsunade's eyes flickered with something unreadable before she turned away. "We'll continue tomorrow." She started walking, clearly indicating that the training session was over for the day.