Tsunade stood in the kitchen, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected visit from Minato and Kushina. "Oh... you two, please, have a seat. Dinner will be ready soon," she said, directing them to the dining area.
Reiki was already back at work, preparing additional dishes. He seemed determined to make the evening special, showcasing his skills not only as a medic but also as a budding chef.
"Your disciple is impressive, Tsunade-sama," Minato remarked, watching Reiki bustle around the kitchen. "His character and talent really stand out."
Tsunade smiled proudly. "Yes, he's a good kid. I suspect he's been using my name to charm his way into the hearts of the villagers."
Just then, Shizune and Yuhi Kurenai emerged from the kitchen with steaming plates. Yuhi Kurenai had grown quite comfortable at Tsunade's home, helping out after school and practicing taijutsu with Reiki.
Tsunade noticed the confusion on Kushina's face. "Yuhi Kurenai is Reiki's classmate," she explained. "They seem to have developed a close friendship."
"Do you think they... like each other?" Kushina asked, a hint of surprise in her tone. Minato chuckled, recalling his own initial experiences with Kushina.
As they finished their meal, the conversation flowed easily, with Kushina and Tsunade discussing village happenings. Meanwhile, Minato took the opportunity to speak with Reiki as they walked Kurenai home.
"Reiki," Minato began, "why did you choose to become a medical ninja? I've heard quite a bit about you these past few days. You have significant talent, and your taijutsu and ninjutsu are quite strong as well."
Reiki thought for a moment, then replied, "Being a medical ninja is very important. In the future, I believe medical ninjas will be central to a team's success. There's no conflict in that."
"But..." Minato pressed, "don't you think you have more potential? It feels like you could be a great combat ninja too."
Reiki paused, a serious expression crossing his face. "I'm afraid of death," he said bluntly, interrupting Minato. "The ninja world is dangerous, and I've seen enough of it to know that hiding behind a medical label keeps me safer."
Minato was taken aback, unsure how to respond. Reiki's perspective was understandable; every ninja had their own path. "Well, it's your choice," he finally said, though a hint of disappointment lingered in his voice. "But I think you could achieve so much more."
As they approached Kurenai's home, Reiki turned to Minato. "I think I'll stay here tonight. Sister Kushina will be at Tsunade's, so you should head back."
Minato nodded, still reflecting on their conversation. "I didn't say I wouldn't stay here…" he muttered as he turned to leave, feeling a mix of confusion and concern.
---
Later that evening, Minato made his way to the Hokage's office, eager to report on his recent mission and share his thoughts on Reiki.
"Lord Hokage," Minato greeted Sarutobi Hiruzen with respect.
"Minato, well done on your mission. I've heard about your priorities—saving your companions. Good work!" Sarutobi praised, his face lighting up with approval.
"Thank you, sir. I wanted to ask, did you summon me for an urgent task?" Minato inquired, noting the late hour.
"Not at all. Just take some time to rest and think about your relationship with Kushina," Sarutobi replied, then added, "How's your teacher, Jiraiya?"
Minato shrugged, slightly confused. "I believe he's still away, traveling. I haven't heard much."
"Ah, that's good to know," Sarutobi said. "We may have some crises on the horizon, so having him around would be beneficial."
After a brief chat, Minato prepared to leave. "Oh, by the way, I met Tsunade's disciple, Reiki. He has remarkable talent. But he insists on being a medical ninja. If the village can provide him with combat opportunities, I believe he could become much more than just that."
"Reiki?" Sarutobi pondered. "I've heard of him. Yes, he shows great promise. Perhaps you could mentor him further, help him see the bigger picture."
---
Once Minato left, Sarutobi leaned back in his chair, mulling over the evening's conversations. "Namikaze Minato… he's a good candidate for Hokage one day." He thought, taking a moment to appreciate the potential in both Reiki and Minato before placing Minato's file back into the drawer, secure in the knowledge that Konoha had bright futures ahead.
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