Chapter 66: Kushina's Test
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Orochimaru's casual laugh filled the air as he remarked, "That Kusanagi Sword we found in the Land of Grass really wasn't suitable for me, after all. Compared to it, the power of the Curse Mark is far more valuable to me."
Tsunade looked at him with a mix of exasperation and familiarity. Even though the Kusanagi Sword was a rare and powerful weapon, Orochimaru showed no regret in giving it away. Tsunade rolled her eyes; Orochimaru's odd personality was something only those close to him could tolerate.
Orochimaru then turned to Uchiha Yosuke with an appreciative look. "Yosuke, setting aside the Curse Mark, your talent and creativity in ninjutsu are truly impressive. I look forward to collaborating with you even more in the future."
Uchiha Yosuke smiled modestly. "Orochimaru-sensei, you're the real genius in ninjutsu creation. I'm just fortunate."
Tsunade interrupted, a bit irritated, "Alright, alright, you're both geniuses. Can we leave it at that?" Normally confident, Tsunade felt a bit out of place around these two. Orochimaru had already developed unique snake-based techniques, and Yosuke, at only thirteen, had already created an A-rank, seal-less jutsu. She couldn't help but feel she hadn't accomplished as much in comparison.
"By the way, kid," Tsunade added, "you'll soon be part of the advance unit sent to the front lines. Take time to get used to your new weapon, and make sure to thank Kushina when you can." Her tone was light, but Yosuke sensed a hint of caution.
"Thank you, Tsunade-nee-san," Yosuke replied, bowing respectfully before leaving.
As he walked away, Orochimaru chuckled in his usual raspy tone. "Seems Kushina might not need to go to the battlefield this time around."
Tsunade, however, only scoffed, her expression turning cold. It was obvious there was more to the situation, and she had subtly hinted this to Yosuke.
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**Hokage's Office**
"Where the leaves dance, fire is never far. The flames will continue to illuminate the village and give rise to new buds," muttered the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, exhaling a cloud of smoke. As he looked at Minato Namikaze, who was kneeling respectfully before him, he noted with pride the spark of the Will of Fire in the young man.
"Minato, you are not just Jiraiya's student, but also someone I trust to carry on the Will of Fire. I'm sure you understand the significance of this mission for the village."
Minato nodded, holding a green intelligence scroll in his hand. His gaze firmed as he studied a picture on the scroll, depicting a red-haired woman. "I believe Kushina Uzumaki won't let you down, Lord Hokage."
"Good. I trust you both, Minato. But for the village's sake, this test has to go forward. The mission will commence in three days, so be prepared."
"Yes, Lord Hokage!" Minato replied firmly before vanishing from the office in a flicker.
As the sun set outside the Hokage's office, the Third Hokage took a long drag on his pipe, his brows furrowing deeply.
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**Senju Compound**
"Is the test really in three days, Grandma?" Tsunade asked, her expression conflicted. She wanted to speak out but held back.
Sitting on a sofa, Uzumaki Mito looked at Tsunade with a weary but gentle gaze. "Tsunade, understand that while the Third Hokage and others may have personal interests, this truly is for the sake of the village. Right now, Konoha can't afford further losses. When considering the well-being of the village, certain methods become...necessary."
Tsunade's face twisted in frustration. "Necessary? Like what happened to Nawaki? And Dan? Both taken out by so-called 'necessary' traps? And his sister, too, died just last year. What a string of unfortunate 'coincidences.'"
She shook her head bitterly, recalling the recent battle in the Land of Grass that had nearly taken her life. For the first time, she found herself empathizing with Uchiha Yosuke's resolve—to protect loved ones and the village, even if it meant shouldering burdens and hiding truths.
Mito looked at her granddaughter with concern. "Seeking power is natural for a ninja, but don't let it consume you. Lately, I've noticed you're becoming almost obsessed with strength."
Tsunade forced a smile. "Grandma, I just want to protect Kushina. And you." For a moment, her thoughts drifted to Yosuke. She now understood how his lighthearted demeanor masked a deep and constant pressure.
Mito watched her granddaughter closely. Though she sensed Tsunade was keeping things from her, she felt a pang of pride. She wouldn't live much longer, but Tsunade's growth brought her peace.
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