The slug clone, a creation of the Slug Sage from Shikkotsu Forest, had seen much throughout its long existence. Like the Great Toad Sage of Mount Myoboku, it had lived for millennia, witnessing the reign of Ōtsutsuki Kaguya, the battles of the Sage of Six Paths and his brother, and the conflicts that shaped the shinobi world.
So when it saw Kirito, it was understandably shocked. His silver hair, prominent horn-like features, white eyes, and pale skin bore a striking resemblance to the Ōtsutsuki clan. The memory of Kaguya's tyranny and the Ōtsutsuki's overwhelming power resurfaced, making the slug freeze in alarm.
It resisted the urge to end the summoning immediately, partly because this was merely one of its many clones, but mostly because Tsunade stood beside Kirito. The slug couldn't risk Tsunade's safety.
"Katsuya, what's wrong?" Tsunade asked, frowning at the creature that had suddenly retreated into her arms.
Though Katsuya typically appeared meek, Tsunade knew its temperament came from gentleness, not weakness. Its unusual behavior made her uneasy.
"It must recognize my identity," Kirito thought, watching the slug with mild amusement. Summoning beasts with long lifespans—especially those in the Three Great Holy Lands—likely retained knowledge of the Ōtsutsuki clan.
"Master Tsunade," the slug finally said, its tone hesitant. "Who is this person? I feel... something unusual about him."
Tsunade, still oblivious to the slug's inner turmoil, smiled proudly. "This is my disciple, Kirito! He's a genius ninja, and I want you to sign a summoning contract with him."
"Disciple? Contract?" The slug looked at her skeptically, as if doubting her judgment. It even considered whether Tsunade was under a genjutsu.
"Yes! He's one of Konoha's finest." Tsunade's confidence in Kirito was unwavering.
The slug scrutinized Kirito again. There was no mistaking it—Kirito wasn't just a talented human. He bore the unmistakable traits of the Ōtsutsuki.
"Hello," Kirito said, his calm demeanor doing little to ease the slug's nerves.
"Eek!" Katsuya recoiled, trembling slightly.
"Katsuya, what's going on?" Tsunade demanded. "You're acting strange."
"No, it's nothing," the slug replied, regaining some composure. "It's just that Master Kirito reminds me of someone I once knew. I would like to know more about him before making a decision."
Satisfied with this explanation, Tsunade began recounting Kirito's background, highlighting his contributions to Konoha and his unmatched prowess in medical ninjutsu.
The slug listened silently, its mind a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. Trusting Tsunade wasn't the issue—it trusted her implicitly. But signing a contract with someone who might have ties to the Ōtsutsuki was a risk. If Kirito harbored malicious intentions, the consequences could be catastrophic.
As Tsunade continued her pitch, Kirito stood silently. He understood the slug's hesitation.
"It's fine if it refuses. I don't need a summoning beast to prove my strength."
His thoughts briefly turned to Little Leopard, his unique companion. Since returning from World Governance, Kirito had kept Little Leopard secluded, ensuring it could control its peculiar urges before introducing it to the world.
"Bringing Little Leopard here would've been a disaster. This slug would've panicked seeing it."
After what felt like an eternity, the slug finally spoke.
"Master Tsunade, I will sign the contract with Master Kirito."
Tsunade let out a sigh of relief. "Good. Kirito, come here."
Later that evening, Kirito found himself at Ichiraku Ramen with TenTen. The two sat at the counter, enjoying their meal after a long day.
"Ah, I'm so jealous!" TenTen groaned, slumping against the counter. "You've done everything I've dreamed of doing. I wanted to sign a contract with the live slug too!"
"It's not that simple," Kirito replied, sipping his broth. "The slug's conditions are strict. You need exceptional medical ninjutsu skills, which require a lot of chakra control."
"I know that," TenTen muttered, her voice tinged with frustration. "I just... don't have the talent for it." She took another sip of her soup, her mood slightly deflated.
"Maybe this calls for a drink to cheer you up," Kirito teased.
"Absolutely not!" TenTen exclaimed, her face twisting in mock horror. "I still remember what happened last time when Rock Lee drank. He nearly destroyed the entire restaurant!"
Kirito chuckled at the memory.
As they ate, TenTen brought up recent news. "Did you hear? Naruto's leaving to train with Jiraiya-sama soon."
"I heard," Kirito said.
"Ugh," TenTen sighed, resting her chin on her hands. "If Naruto gets stronger while training with one of the Sannin, I'll fall even further behind!"
Kirito nodded. "He's been persistent about learning Lightning Release recently. Maybe that drive will pay off during his training."
"Even Lee's pushing himself harder than usual," TenTen added. "I need to figure out a way to catch up!"
Finishing his bowl, Kirito offered a suggestion. "Jiraiya has traveled the world. When he comes to pick up Naruto, I'll ask him if he knows any unique training opportunities. Maybe we'll find something that suits you."
TenTen perked up. "You'd do that?"
"Of course," Kirito said with a faint smile. "We're a team, after all."
(End of Chapter)
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