The morning light in Konoha filtered through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows on the Uchiha Training Ground.
Time flies, and two and a half days have passed since that highly anticipated coronation ceremony.
Chiyo Uchiha, dressed in a dark-colored casual outfit that allowed for easy movement, rather than the black Kagami Robe that symbolized authority, leaned casually against a training post.
His gaze was calm as he watched the two swiftly intersecting figures in the arena, the air occasionally filled with the crisp sound of Kunai clashing and the surging chakra fluctuations of Ninjutsu.
The two youngest, yet most talented, disciples under his command were training in the arena.
Shisui Uchiha and Itachi Uchiha.
Shisui was a bit older, but his movements were concise, clean, and swift as the wind. The arcs drawn by his Chunin sword were tricky and precise. Although his Sharingan had not yet been awakened, his dynamic vision and combat intuition far surpassed those of his peers.
Even more remarkable Itachi Uchiha, who has not yet entered the Ninja Academy.
His physique was still immature, but his Isshiki already revealed extraordinary skill and composure.
The angle at which the shuriken was thrown was incredibly precise, and the hand seals for the Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique were already formed smoothly in his small hands. Although the size of the flames he spewed out was not huge due to the limited amount of chakra he had.
However, its form control and the degree of heat it generates have already reached an excellent level among Genin.
Chiyo's gaze mostly lingered on Itachi.
This child was so obedient and sensible that he was almost perfect. His understanding and mastery of Ninjutsu often surprised even him.
The focus and precocious intelligence hidden deep within his calm gaze far surpassed his age.
"Stop."
Chiyo's voice wasn't loud, but it clearly reached the ears of the two people in the room.
The figures in the midst of the fierce battle separated instantly, each regaining their footing, slightly out of breath.
Especially the young Itachi, whose little face was already covered in sweat, but whose eyes remained bright as he looked respectfully at his teacher.
" Shisui, your speed in advancing is very fast, but the chakra flow when changing direction is too deliberate, which leaves an opening."
To achieve a smoother flow, let your body remember the feeling, rather than trying to control it with your mind.
Chiyo made her debut.
"Yes, teacher!"
Shisui nodded seriously, seemingly lost in thought.
Chiyo turned her gaze to Itachi.
"Itachi, your technique is very standard, even too standard."
Combat is not a martial arts demonstration; there is no need to pursue the ultimate form of perfection.
You had three chances to use the smoke generated by Fire Style to close the distance to Shisui using the Substitution Technique, but you chose to continue Hand Seals to maintain the fire.
Remember, efficiency always trumps performance.
Chakra should be used where it's most crucial.
The young weasel frowned slightly, thinking seriously, then nodded emphatically.
"I understand, teacher. Thank you for your guidance."
His speed of comprehension brought a barely perceptible hint of satisfaction to Chiyo's eyes.
This child has talent.
It's just as good as Shisui.
He pointed out a few more shortcomings in their coordination and then let them figure it out and practice on their own.
The training continued until the sun was directly overhead, at which point it came to an end.
"Alright, that's all for this morning."
Chiyo clapped his hands.
"Go tidy up, then I'll take you out to eat."
"Yes!"
The two responded in unison, their faces showing the anticipation for delicious food that comes with their age.
Instead of taking them to a fancy restaurant, Chiyo led the two to a traditional restaurant within the Uchiha Compound, a favorite among the clan members.
The boss was so excited to see the Lord Hokage in person that he was at a loss for what to do.
However, Chiyo gently stopped him with her eyes and arranged a quiet private room for him, just like any other guest.
Ultimately, the two of them were just teenagers.
Especially Little Itachi, who ate his delicious food in a well-behaved but not slow manner, Chiyo had a faint smile on his lips.
For him, this peaceful daily routine was a form of relaxation after dealing with the mountain of Hokage duties.
After the two had finished eating, Chiyo put down her teacup.
"I have to go out for a bit. Shisui, you're in charge of taking Itachi home. Don't slack off on the Taijutsu training this afternoon."
"Don't worry, teacher!"
Shisui patted his chest and assured him, already showing some of the responsibility of a senior disciple.
The weasel nodded obediently.
"Take care, teacher."
Chiyo ruffled Itachi's black hair, and with a flicker, disappeared from the private room.
The afternoon sun generously bathed the Orphanage courtyard, gilding everything with a warm, golden light.
The children's silvery laughter came from the other side of the house, making the silence in this corner of the courtyard seem even more abrupt.
Tsunade crossed, her golden hair gently swaying in the breeze.
Her gaze, however, was fixed on the boy training diligently in the center of the courtyard, and she couldn't look away for a long time.
That's Yamato.
The boy's lips were tightly pressed together as he focused intently on Hand Seals.
The chakra within his body circulated in a unique and somewhat cumbersome manner.
" Wood Release: Silent Binding Technique!"
He gave a low shout and pressed his hands to the ground.
The next moment, several sharp wooden stakes burst from the ground, accurately piercing the rotten wood that was being used as a target. Their speed and power were remarkable, far exceeding the level expected for someone his age.
However, Tsunade's brows furrowed more and more, and her eyes were filled with extremely complex emotions.
This is not his Wood Release.
At least, not entirely.
She knew better than anyone what her grandfather, Senju Hashirama's Wood Release was like.
That was the boundless power of life, the creation of all Shinra Bansho, a crushing force with an almost divine radiance.
My grandfather's Wood Dragon, the Deep Forest Emergence, was wielded with an almost natural grandeur and majesty, as if the forest itself was heeding his call.
What the young man before them was using seemed more like a...
imitate.
A forced, artificially produced replica, imbued with a sense of craftsmanship and coldness.
The wood that broke through the soil was hard, sharp, and aggressive, but lacked the warmth and vitality that comes from the source of life.
It's more like a meticulously crafted weapon than a gift from blood.
" Danzo... that damned bastard..."
Tsunade practically spat out those words through clenched teeth, a tight, throbbing pain shooting through her chest.
She could almost imagine what the child had been through.
A cold experimental table, endless pain, forcibly implanted cells struggling on the brink of life and death, all in an effort to create a tool capable of recreating the power of the " God of Shinobi ".
This power was not an honor to him, but an indelible and cruel mark etched on his body and soul.
A surge of intense anger and disgust welled up in Tsunade's heart.
It is hatred for the atrocities committed by Danzo and Orochimaru, who disregarded human ethics, and also grief and indignation at the fact that such a dirty deal was hidden under the shadow of Konoha back then.
But at the same time, another, more subtle emotion was also pulling at her.
The boy was, after all, using " Wood Release ".
It is Kekkei Genkai belongs only to her grandfather and the Senju Clan.
It was once the symbol of the glory and pinnacle of the Senju Clan.
Now, it appears in such a distorted and abnormal way in a child who has no blood relation to Senju.
She felt a sting of pain at the tarnishing of her racial honor, a sense of loss at the transience of things.
The glory of the Senju Clan has long since faded with the passage of time, and even this last symbol has been lost to the world in such a wretched way.
However...
Her gaze was fixed on the boy's tense figure.
He practiced so diligently, pouring his whole heart and soul into every Hand Seals and every act of nurturing the wood.
Her little face was covered in sweat.
He manipulated it with extreme care, even with a hint of barely perceptible fear, as if afraid that the power would go out of control and harm others.
This effort and restraint stood in stark contrast to the cold power within him.
Tsunade couldn't help but recall the first time Chiyo brought him here.
The boy at that time had eyes of fear like a young animal, and was wary of everything except Chiyo and Yakushi Nonō.
This dangerous and unstable power resides within his body.
It was Chiyo who pulled him out of the darkness, gave him a place to stay, and gave him a chance.
It was also Chiyo who "invited" her over.
The purpose was ostensibly to guide the boy in controlling his power and preventing him from going berserk and harming others.
She knew Chiyo's intentions.
It's not just about controlling power, but also about... redemption.
It is perhaps ironic that she, possessing the power of the Senju Clan, is tasked with guiding this child burdened with the power of "falsehood."
But perhaps, he is the only one who can truly understand and guide him.
"Hmph, that cunning brat..."
Tsunade muttered something under her breath, her tone complex but lacking some of her previous sharpness.
She watched Yamato failed once again; the stake grew crookedly, failing to hit its target.
The boy slumped his shoulders in dejection, his breathing rapid.
Almost instinctively, Tsunade straightened up and shouted.
"Hey! Being too hasty will only make the formation more unstable!"
Wood Release is not a destructive Ninjutsu; even its attacks must contain the intention of 'growth'! Let's try again!"
Her voice was stern, carrying an unquestionable authority.
Yamato froze, turned around abruptly, and looked at Tsunade in surprise from below the corridor.
He seemed surprised that the legendary Three Legendary Sannin would suddenly offer guidance.
After hesitating for a moment, he readjusted his posture, took a deep breath, and tried to adjust his chakra according to Tsunade's instructions.
This time, the wooden stakes that broke through the ground seemed less sharp and more... resilient?
Although it's still stiff, it's definitely different.
As Tsunade watched his adjustment, the complex emotions in her eyes gradually subsided, transforming into a purer, teacher-like scrutiny and focus.
The anger remains, and the melancholy won't disappear immediately.
But looking at this child struggling in the darkness, trying to grasp a glimmer of light, and seeing the familiar yet unfamiliar power within him, a heavy sense of responsibility quietly overwhelmed those mixed emotions.
Perhaps, Chiyo is right.
This power is a curse, but those who bear it are not sinful.
Rather than allowing this twisted power to fester in the darkness, or denying the child because of its origin, it would be better to...
Why not let her carve it herself?
Even if this isn't the true Senju Wood Release, we must guide it onto the right path.
Perhaps this is also her way of paying tribute to her deceased grandfather and to the Senju Clan.
The sun was still shining warmly, and in the courtyard, the boy continued his training.
Under the eaves, the golden glint in his eyes remained complex, yet now held a hint of determination and a subtle... tenderness.
She was no longer just an observer, but began to truly embrace the role of "guide".
At this moment.
She seemed to sense something and turned her head.
Just then, Chiyo appeared silently beside the courtyard gate.
"Oh, busy Lord Hokage, what brings you to the Orphanage today?"
Tsunade raised an eyebrow, her tone carrying her unique blend of teasing and languidness, as she approached.
Chiyo smiled slightly and turned his gaze to the two teenagers in the arena.
"I've come to see them, and I've come to see you too."
His gaze lingered on Yakushi Kabuto for a moment, in particular.
Tsunade followed his gaze, and her expression became more serious.
She stood side by side with Chiyo and lowered her voice.
" Yamato's condition is relatively stable. His mastery of Wood Release is becoming more and more proficient. Although he is still far from his grandfather's level, at least he won't suffer any backlash."
She's still somewhat introverted, but she's much better than when she first arrived, when she was completely terrified.
He is very grateful to you and very loyal.
Chiyo nodded.
Yamato was a child rescued during the experiment, and his powers are extremely special. It is truly remarkable that he has come this far.
"As for the totems..."
Tsunade paused, a clear hint of admiration in her voice.
"This kid is a genius. No, even 'genius' isn't enough to describe him."
Her gaze returned to the quiet boy under the tree.
"He can understand and learn almost anything from the medical notes and Scroll you sent him at a glance."
His ability to apply knowledge to new situations is frighteningly strong.
Having already mastered the basic Mystical Palm Technique, I am now beginning to delve into more advanced meridian repair and cellular-level treatments.
"His theoretical knowledge is even more solid than that of many Chunin the Medical Team."
"And."
Tsunade added, her tone somewhat subtle.
"His temperament... is so calm and composed that he doesn't seem like a child."
"Exceptionally quick learner, highly organized, and observant."
Chiyo listened quietly, without any surprise on her face.
Yakushi Kabuto's potential was clearer to him than anyone else.
This genius, who could stir up storms and even once control the army of Impure World Reincarnation in the original timeline, has now embarked on a different path under his intervention.
Its amazing learning ability and adaptability have indeed not diminished in the slightest.
"It seems he's quite comfortable here."
Chiyo said calmly.
"It's more than just adapting."
Tsunade pouted.
" Nonō almost treats him like her own son, and the other children in the yard all listen to him."
This guy has an innate air of trustworthiness. However..."
Tsunade changed the subject, looking at Chiyo with a slightly sharper gaze.
Are you sure you want to leave him in the Orphanage?
His talent should be channeled into a more specialized Medical Corps, or... a special department?
"Isn't it a waste to leave it here?"
Chiyo gazed intently at Kabuto.
The boy seemed to sense the gaze, looked up from his book, adjusted his glasses, and upon seeing that it was Chiyo, immediately stood up and bowed respectfully.
A perfectly timed smile, tinged with shyness and respect, appeared on his face.
"Teacher!"
Chiyo nodded slightly to him, then spoke to Tsunade.
"Jade that is not carved cannot become a useful object. But carving jade also requires time and a suitable environment."
Throwing him into those places too early might distort his nature.
The Orphanage is great. It has Nonō's warmth, your guidance, and... people who need his protection.
This will help him find his 'roots,' and not just exist as a tool.
He paused, then continued.
"I believe in Nonō, and I believe in you too, that you can... take control of the situation and teach him well."
Upon hearing this, Tsunade gave Chiyo a deep look but said nothing more.
She understood that Chiyo had a deeper meaning.
"That's right!"
Tsunade seemed to suddenly remember something, and a mocking smile appeared on her face.
"Your black-haired Red Eye 'little fangirl' came over again yesterday with snacks, specifically thanking ' Hokage- sensei' for his guidance. Tsk, what about those roses? Did you handle them?"
Chiyo remained expressionless, as if she hadn't noticed the teasing in her words.
"Hong is a hardworking child. As for the flowers... Mikoto thinks drying them as flowers would be nice for decorating the study."
Tsunade couldn't help but chuckle, giving him a charmingly disdainful look.
"You... really... never mind, I can't be bothered with your romantic escapades."
After chatting for a few more minutes about the reform of Konoha's medical system, Chiyo prepared to leave.
Before leaving, he walked alone to the tree where Yakushi Kabuto was reading a book.
He closed the letter, bowed respectfully again, his eyes clear and sincere.
What book are you reading?
Chiyo asked.
"It's the <In-Depth Analysis of the Chakra Meridian System> recommended by Lady Tsunade."
He handed the book over with both hands.
Chiyo didn't take it, but only glanced at the pages.
Is there anything you don't understand?
"Not at the moment. Lady Tsunade's notes are extremely detailed."
Dou replied, his tone neither humble nor arrogant.
Chiyo looked at him, remained silent for a moment, and then suddenly spoke.
"Kabuto, what is the meaning of power?"
Yakushi Kabuto slightly taken aback, seemingly not expecting the Hokage to suddenly ask this question.
He adjusted his glasses, pondered for more than ten seconds, and then cautiously answered.
"I believe... power is for protecting what you want to protect."
Just as Nonō protects us, Lady Tsunade uses Medical Ninjutsu to protect the wounded, you, teacher, use your power to protect the entire Konoha."
The answer was near perfect, befitting the response of a well-guided and positive teenager.
Chiyo nodded, offering no judgment on right or wrong, but simply said...
Remember what you said today.
The book is good, but don't forget to look at the people around you.
Sometimes, the best medical knowledge isn't all in books.
After saying that, he patted Dou on the shoulder and turned to leave.
Yakushi Kabuto stood there, watching Chiyo's departing figure. The light reflected off his glasses, obscuring the expression in his eyes.
He stood there for a long time, seemingly pondering the meaning of the last sentence in Hokage.
Chiyo walked out of the Orphanage, the afternoon sun bathed her entire body.
Handling administrative affairs, teaching disciples, and caring for the growth of young talents...
All of these seemingly ordinary daily routines are the very foundation upon which the name " Hokage " is built.
His Konoha is moving towards the Mirai step by step, according to his will.