Chapter 4: Tension in the Shadows
Riku adjusted quickly to the academy's routine, though he continued to keep his distance from most of the students. The training sessions challenged him but also gave him opportunities to refine his abilities. Still, he couldn't ignore the strange stares he often received, particularly from the girls.
Despite their curiosity, none approached him openly, preferring instead to whisper in hushed tones. The boys, on the other hand, either ignored him or viewed him with subtle hostility, likely irritated by his aloof attitude and quick rise in skill.
Riku paid them no mind. His focus was solely on improving himself and understanding the nature of his chakra.
---
The days passed, and Riku's group assignments remained consistent: Akira, the cold and observant girl, and Tetsuya, the quiet weapon specialist. Though they worked well together, their dynamic was far from perfect.
"You're too cautious," Tetsuya grumbled during one exercise. "If we keep holding back, we'll lose valuable time."
"And rushing ahead will get us caught in a trap," Akira countered sharply. "You need to learn patience."
Riku remained silent, letting their argument play out. He preferred to act rather than waste time debating.
As the exercise resumed, he moved ahead of them, disabling a series of traps with calculated precision. By the time they caught up, the path to their objective was clear.
Akira raised an eyebrow. "You could've said something."
"There was no need," Riku replied simply.
Tetsuya muttered under his breath, but he couldn't deny the results.
---
After class, Riku found a quiet spot near the academy to practice. He closed his eyes, focusing on the flow of chakra within him. The sensation was becoming more familiar, though it still felt foreign at times.
"Still at it?"
Riku opened his eyes to see Akira standing nearby, arms crossed.
"You're always training," she observed. "Don't you ever take a break?"
"I don't have time for breaks," he said.
She studied him for a moment, her expression unreadable. "You're determined, I'll give you that. But you can't do everything alone."
Riku's gaze hardened. "I've managed just fine so far."
Akira sighed but didn't press the issue. Instead, she sat down nearby, pulling out a kunai to sharpen.
---
Meanwhile, in the Hokage's office, Hiruzen Sarutobi sat in deep thought. The reports on Riku had caught his attention—not just because of his sudden progress at the academy, but also because of his unusual demeanor.
"There's something different about that boy," Hiruzen murmured to himself.
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts, and an ANBU operative stepped inside.
"Lord Hokage, there have been inquiries from Danzo regarding the new academy student," the operative reported.
Hiruzen's expression darkened. "Tell Danzo that Riku Kurozawa is not to be interfered with. I will handle the situation personally."
The ANBU operative bowed and left without another word.
Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, exhaling heavily. "That boy… He may be an asset, but I can't let him fall into Danzo's hands."
---
Later that evening, as Riku returned to the orphanage, he felt a faint presence following him. He slowed his pace, pretending not to notice, until he reached an empty alley.
"Whoever you are, come out," he said coldly.
A moment of silence passed before a masked ANBU operative stepped into view.
"The Hokage has taken an interest in you," the operative said. "But you should be cautious. Not everyone in this village has your best interests at heart."
Riku's eyes narrowed. "What do you want from me?"
The operative hesitated. "I'm here to ensure your safety. That's all you need to know for now."
Before Riku could respond, the operative disappeared, leaving him alone in the alley.
---
The encounter left Riku uneasy. He didn't trust the Hokage or the ANBU, but he also knew that being under their watchful eye might offer some protection—for now.
As he entered the orphanage, he resolved to stay vigilant. The world around him was growing more dangerous, and he couldn't afford to let his guard down.
For now, his priority was simple: survive, grow stronger, and uncover the truth about his chakra.
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To be continued...