"Mm. Naturally, the way someone like you, a genius, is taught differs from ordinary people. Take these books and Scrolls containing ninjutsu back with you and study them on your own."
"I'll be at the hospital every afternoon. If I'm not at the hospital, I'll be at the Ninja Academy. If you encounter something you don't understand, you can come ask me, but I don't want you coming to me all the time."
"When you don't understand something, think more and do more. Only come find me when you truly can't find an answer."
After saying all that, Tsunade picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip of tea, and waited for Hyuga Kazuya's response.
Though he found Tsunade's instructions somewhat strange, Hyuga Kazuya still nodded solemnly.
"I understand, Lord Tsunade."
"Hm? Lord?"
"Oh, Teacher. Teacher Tsunade."
"Mm. Take these books back with you. They're numbered, and they'll tell you which ones to read first and which ones to read afterward."
Seeing that the serious business was finished, Tsunade recalled Hyuga Kazuya's little gesture earlier and teased him.
"Also, was it that girl Ryoko who told you that becoming a disciple required money?"
"This..."
Hyuga Kazuya did not know how to answer. Was he supposed to sell her out directly?
That would not be appropriate, would it?
"You don't need a formal apprenticeship gift. Keep that money. Consider it a gift from your teacher."
With a trace of amusement on her face, Tsunade did not pursue the matter and simply stated what would be done with the apprenticeship gift.
"O-Okay. Thank you, Teacher."
Faced with his teacher's gift, Hyuga Kazuya bowed, but after saying those words, he felt incredibly conflicted inside.
Seeing Hyuga Kazuya's expression, the corners of Tsunade's lips lifted, though she concealed it well enough that