"Simple treatments and surgeries are not an issue, Captain. Don't worry, I'm just not fit for combat right now, but that doesn't mean I can't use ninjutsu," Shinki reassured.
In reality, Shinki wasn't significantly affected. As long as he avoided direct exposure to strong light, he could manage everything else, including medical ninjutsu and basic combat. Overstating his condition was a strategy to project vulnerability.
He couldn't be certain whether there were any spies loyal to Shimura Danzo in the camp. If there were, showing weakness would be the best bait. If Danzo tried to exploit this "opportunity," Shinki had a surprise in store.
"That's good to hear," Little Honda said, visibly relieved. "Shinki, stay in the medical room and rest. Mishima and I will take care of the rest. We'll be cautious and minimize any injuries, so you won't have too much to handle."
"We'll feel much better once you're fully recovered."
After offering their support, Little Honda and Sarutobi Mishima left together.
Outside, Little Honda grumbled, "Mishima, Shinki shouldn't have been selected for rotation in this state. Do you know why he was picked?"
"I don't," Mishima replied, shaking his head. Even if he did, it wasn't something he could discuss openly.
"Let's just hope it passes soon. He's had similar episodes in the village before, and they didn't last too long. We shouldn't overthink it, but it's good to keep everyone reassured."
"That's all we can do."
The news of Shinki's eye condition quickly reached Konoha that night, carried by Sarutobi Mishima.
The Third Hokage received the report and leaned back thoughtfully.
**Danzo, what will you do?**
The situation presented Danzo with an ideal opportunity to act, but it would come with the risk of exposure. The Third Hokage was eager to see how Danzo would respond.
He knew Danzo would have access to the same intelligence. The question was whether Danzo would make a move.
Meanwhile, in a dimly lit room, Danzo scowled as he read the report, then threw it into the flames, watching it burn to ashes.
**Sarutobi Hiruzen!**
Danzo seethed with frustration, knowing that the Third Hokage had set the stage in a way that allowed him to act but only within limits. If Danzo crossed the line, Hiruzen would not hesitate to cut him loose.
Danzo knew that revenge for Shinki came with risks. While Shinki's current state seemed like an ideal chance to strike, Danzo saw it for what it was—a trap. Tsunade's recent visit to the camp was a clear warning. Hiruzen's "permission" to act was nothing more than a veiled ultimatum.
**If I move now, I'll be the one taking all the blame.**
With clenched fists and an icy glare at the Hokage's office, Danzo restrained himself.
---
"Shinki, are your eyes improving? Can you manage?"
Since the third pulse of his Tenseigan, Shinki hadn't left the medical room and even prepared his meals alone, avoiding unnecessary contact. Despite his medical skills, he knew caution was needed now more than ever.
"It's the same, Captain. It'll take a while, likely until after the New Year. Did you need something?" Shinki replied calmly.
His face covered with cloth, Shinki couldn't see, but his heightened perception made up for it. He could sense and respond using chakra, gravity, and repulsion.
"No, just wanted to make sure you're alright. It's cold today, so try to stay warm and drink less water to avoid trips outside," Little Honda said, holding out a scroll. "This was delivered by a ninja from the village on Princess Tsunade's orders."
It was a standard sealing scroll, filled with supplies purchased by Tsunade but paid for by Kushina. When Kushina learned that Shinki would be away for a year, she became disheartened. Her only close friend was gone, and even Minato, her "half-friend," couldn't fill the void.
So, with Tsunade's help, Kushina bought a variety of supplies, packed them into a scroll, and sent them to Shinki.
"Thank you, Captain," Shinki said, taking the scroll with a smile.
Little Honda waved his hand dismissively. "No need for thanks. It's my duty to look after everyone here. I'll be on duty soon, so I'll leave you to rest."
Once alone, Shinki opened the scroll, used his chakra to scan its contents, and froze.
**Did they empty the village market for this?**
It had to be Kushina. Tsunade wouldn't have bought so much; she barely had any money. Kushina, on the other hand, didn't think twice about spending.
**A rich friend's generosity knows no bounds. I still need to handle Tsunade's side of things, too.**
Shinki rubbed his temples. He didn't mind attention from women, but Kushina and Tsunade? That was playing with fire. Both were fiery and strong-willed, and each had explosive combat skills.
Tsunade was powerful now, but one day Kushina, as the Nine-Tails Jinchūriki, would surpass her. The thought of the two clashing made his scalp tingle.
**I'll deal with that when the time comes. No use worrying now.**
Shinki selected some fresh vegetables and beef, deciding to make a good meal. Camp food was basic; hunting and barbecuing were the only real options.
"Captain Mishima, can I get your help with something?"
Mishima entered, curious. "What do you need?"
Shinki pointed to the open space beside the medical room. "Can you and a few others help clear the ice and snow? I want to make an ice box. It needs to be big enough to store meat."
He planned to store perishable food properly, turning the frozen landscape into a natural refrigerator.
"Sure."
Without questioning him, Mishima called for help, and soon the group got to work.
To thank them, Shinki prepared a large pot of beef and potatoes. The aroma alone was enough reward.
"It's done, Shinki. What do you need this for, anyway?" Mishima asked.
"To store meat. It would spoil otherwise."
The group watched in awe as Shinki pulled out slabs of meat from the scroll, filling the ice box.
"That's... a lot of meat," one ninja muttered, wide-eyed.
Mishima slapped the back of his head. "This was sent by Tsunade for Shinki. Want some? Ask your own wife to send you supplies."
With the meat stored, the natural freezer was complete.
"This is amazing. Are we going to get more ice tomorrow? Count me in!"
"Haha, me too."
Shinki laughed as he watched the team enjoy their meal and eagerly plan for more work.
>>>>>
Up to Chapter 60 available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
Gimme power stonesssss
Also, leave a review FFS