Main Story Progress, Karma Stage Two!

"You're really tough on these kids when it comes to training them."

Jiraiya, Kakashi, and Hyuga Makoto were fishing by a small river near the Konoha training ground.

Not far from them, Naruto and Sasuke were sparring, Hinata and Neji were practicing Gentle Fist.

These little guys were all panting heavily, looking completely exhausted.

But since Hyuga Makoto didn't call for a stop, they really didn't dare to stop.

Jiraiya, and he spoke as he pulled up the hooked fish.

"I don't remember being this strict when I trained you, did I?"

"Isn't that because I learn quickly, Pervy Sage?"

Seeing that Jiraiya had made another gain, Hyuga Makoto couldn't help but curl his lip.

"I've seen all your Secret Technique once with my Byakugan. I just memorized the flow and changes of Chakra within your body, and that's it. It's not difficult at all."

"Not difficult..."

Jiraiya's lips twitched slightly; it had taken him quite a while to learn these things!

How come it becomes like it's worthless in your mouth?

Looking at Hyuga Makoto's confident demeanor and those white eyes, he could only sigh.

"Hey Kakashi, his Byakugan is even more outrageous than your Sharingan!"

"Lord Jiraiya, perhaps this is what the Byakugan should look like."

Kakashi didn't care; he'd already gotten his goods too!

"Besides, isn't everyone in Konoha saying that the Hyuga Clan has been wasting their talents, while Makoto is the one who has fully utilized the Byakugan's potential?"

"You said that..."

Hearing this, Hyuga Makoto felt a little embarrassed.

Whether Hyuga wasted his talent or not, he himself couldn't say for sure.

After all, in his memory, the Hyuga Clan basically didn't have a later stage.

But everything he's doing now is actually pushing the statement "Hyuga wasting his talent" into a fait accompli.

The Hyuga Clan is currently in complete chaos.

It wasn't just to solidify their foundation so that Hyuga Makoto could seal their Caged Bird Seal; it was also to prove themselves.

To be honest, even Hyuga Makoto doubted whether things would continue like this...

"Could this really bring out a superhuman like the young Hinata Kohinata Mukai my memories, who could dismantle a Gundam with his bare hands and beat up Shisui and Uchiha Itachi?"

Of course, if it actually happens, he'll be happy!

He was even considering whether he should add his own ingredients.

After all, Hyuga is basically his Hyuga.

[Main Quest: Become the World Nucleus (18%)]

[You have successfully united the family; even if you are not yet the family Patriarch, everyone is actively rallying around you.]

[You have also gained an excellent reputation in Konoha. The Konoha High Command, the major clans, and many Jonin Konoha are aware of your talent and abilities.]

They trust you, are willing to be close to you, and can try to surround you.

[It's just that you're in the Anbu, so you don't have much contact with them, and because of Anbu, many people in Konoha don't know you.]

They've only heard of your reputation, but they don't know who you really are. This is both a protection and an obstacle for you.

[This is true in Kirigakure and many other places as well, but overall you are already a strong ninja with a good reputation in the Shinobi World. You still need to work harder.]

Looking at the system's evaluation of him, Hyuga Makoto couldn't help but stroke his chin.

"This comment is not bad; at least it's not as insignificant as before."

Recalling those past comments, he was almost unwilling to speak.

And now, the comments have clearly told him exactly what position he holds in the Hyuga!

If it weren't for the fact that he had always shown respect to Hyuga Hiashi, and that the Patriarch had also supported the Branch Family, he would have been able to achieve his goals.

I'm afraid those guys will start shouting, "Heavenly Father killed Heavenly Brother, the country can't be conquered, the Hiashi is not the rightful master, the Hyuga returns to the loyal minister!"

"You guys are all too extreme; you're going to get me into big trouble!"

Hyuga Makoto couldn't help but mutter to himself, "I'm actually quite worried that one day I'll wake up and someone will suddenly tell me it's getting cold and I need to put on more clothes."

He didn't need to worry about family matters, and the village's problems were actually within his expectations.

From the very beginning, the Anbu was just a platform for him; he never intended to stay there indefinitely.

"I want to use the Anbu as a platform to complete my initial accumulation."

"Through my struggles in the Anbu," he gained a certain reputation not only in Konoha but even outside the village.

He now has only two thoughts: to accumulate more prestige and, at the same time, to observe the situation of Uchiha Izumi.

"When I leave the Anbu, some of my deeds will be made public, and then..."

Hyuga Makoto couldn't even imagine how far his main storyline would progress by then!

"Moreover, this fusion of Yin-Yang Release has brought about quite a few changes for me."

[Name: Hyuga Makoto]

[Bloodline: Moon Ōtsutsuki (42%)]

[Dōjutsu: Tenseigan (22%)]

[Chakra Attributes: Yin, Yang]

As he pondered, his control panel quietly appeared.

Seeing that even a partial fusion had resulted in a two percent increase in both stats, he felt even more pleased.

With this fusion, he can now use many of the Yin-Yang Release abilities more easily!

"Furthermore, I find it much easier to control Yin Release and Yang Release individually."

"The Yin Release and Yang Release alone are extraordinary powers in the Shinobi World, and his original Curse Mark already contained both of these powers."

Relying on these powers, he had faced the Three-Tails being controlled.

Now they are easier to control, and even stronger, which is a huge help to him!

"The most interesting thing is that my second part of the story seems to be complete as well..."

Recalling the wondrous changes that occurred in the Yin Seal Yin Seal after he integrated Yin-Yang Release into it, he couldn't help but laugh.

The Yin-Yang Release technique, when activated, is no longer its original black color, but rather carries a strange azure hue.

This azure blue color can not only be displayed on the Curse Mark, but can also cover his entire body as he outputs Chakra!

"It really looks like Boruto's first time playing Karma II."

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In this state, coupled with the fact that he could see the Flame of Life, he couldn't help but smile.

He probably couldn't protect the Flame of Life directly with Yang Release like Naruto.

But to destroy the Flame of Life, he seems to have even more methods...

"You little rascal, you can still laugh even when you're about to lose?"

Just as Hyuga Makoto was pondering this, Jiraiya suddenly raised an eyebrow.

He pulled up the fish that had just taken the bait, and said with a grin.

"One hundred taels for each, don't forget."

"Cheng, you're really bad at fishing."

Kakashi was somewhat amused; he and Jiraiya caught fish, but Hyuga Makoto caught none.

"Could it be that you made Naruto and the others hang too many fish, causing this to happen?"

Hyuga Makoto stopped laughing; he even seemed to be gritting his teeth.

He just couldn't understand why the fish weren't biting the hook.

He now truly regrets not having Lightning Release...

Why aren't you saying anything?

Jiraiya leaned in close, peering intently into his fish basket.

"Tsk tsk, still not a single one? Looks like you'll have to spend some money this time."

Hyuga Makoto Jiraiya a long time before finally speaking softly.

"I can afford to lose this little bit of money, but I was thinking about other things and almost made myself laugh."

"Oh? What's up?"

Jiraiya blinked, looking somewhat curious, and even Kakashi leaned over.

"What is it that you can still laugh even when you're about to lose?"

"I was thinking about Hanzo of the Salamander giving you the title of ' Konoha Sannin '."

Hyuga Makoto gave a soft snort before looking at Jiraiya.

"This is quite an interesting matter."

"Tch, this is really boring..."

Upon hearing Jiraiya, Jiraiya couldn't help but shake his head.

This title is hardly an honor for him, Orochimaru, or Tsunade.

After all, they were defeated by Hanzo of the Salamander. It was only because the old man was wary of what unimaginable things Konoha might do after killing them.

That's why he used this "saving face" tactic to end the war.

Even if the meaning of this title gradually changes as they grow up, they will never forget its true meaning.

"Hey, you're not laughing because you think we lost, are you?"

"That's not the case. I think he should have just changed the title back then."

Hyuga Makoto shook his head before slowly speaking.

"For example, the Sannin of Konoha who were involved in gambling, prostitution, and drugs?"

Jiraiya's expression froze, Kakashi was stunned, but Hyuga Makoto was excited.

"Look at you, so lecherous, while Lady Tsunade is a cash cow at the casino, and Orochimaru spends all his time playing with poisonous snakes."

"Isn't this a perfect match?!"

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"

"So, do you want to consider making some changes?"

Kakashi remained silent for a moment, but he couldn't suppress the embarrassment and amusement in his eyes.

Jiraiya's fists hardened, and for a moment he really wanted to punch his traitorous disciple twice!

He admitted that it was true, but is this how you talk?

As he thought about it, he started to laugh at himself.

"That's really good. I'll discuss it with Tsunade after we find her!"

"Ah?"

This time, Kakashi was dumbfounded. Could something like this really be changed so easily?

Doesn't Hanzo of the Salamander have any pride?

"However, I'm afraid that old man Hanzo won't agree."

Fortunately, Jiraiya stopped smiling and couldn't help but sigh.

"I wonder what happened to that old man. Years ago, I heard he secluded himself in Amegakure and then disappeared without a trace. It's really strange."

Who knows...

Hyuga Makoto tilted his head; actually, he did know a little bit.

If nothing unexpected happens, Ibuse will most likely be chopped chili fish by now.

Nagato was thoroughly beaten by him, but dealing with Hanzo, who was in his later years and had lost his faith, was still a Hanzo of cake!

"This guy dedicated his entire life to the Land of Rain. I still remember his heroic spirit back then. How did he turn into this wretched state?"

Jiraiya rubbed his temples, then sighed.

"Forget it, let's not talk about him. Just mentioning him reminds me of things from the past."

"Oh?"

Hyuga Makoto blinked, and asked deliberately.

"What is it, Pervy Sage? If you don't mind..."

"Sigh, this isn't a story worth remembering."

Jiraiya's face showed some pain, but he didn't even notice the fishing rod shaking again.

After a moment of silence, he finally spoke.

"That's hardly a secret. After the war in the Land of Rain ended, I stayed there for three years because I took on three disciples."

"Three disciples?"

Kakashi was somewhat surprised, as he was genuinely unaware of this matter, while Jiraiya nodded slightly.

"Yes, it's a pity that these three children died in the war."

He paused for a moment before managing a nonchalant smile.

"If you hadn't Hanzo me, I would have almost forgotten. I really am not a very responsible teacher."

That's what he said, but a hint of sadness welled up in his eyes.

She was his disciple after all. Even though they only spent three years together, those three years were still one of the most unforgettable periods of his life.

Little did he know that when he received the next message, it would be after their passing.

"Boy, you are now Sage only disciple."

Jiraiya turned his head and looked at Hyuga Makoto beside him.

"So be careful, stay focused, and don't become arrogant just because you have some strength. This Sage doesn't want to receive any more bad news."

"Don't worry, Pervy Sage."

Hyuga Makoto Seiya's expression became much more serious.

"I'm not that kind of person, and I think we could visit the Land of Rain next time."

"Um?"

Jiraiya raised an eyebrow, seemingly guessing what Hyuga Makoto meant, Hyuga Makoto smiled as well.

"You old lecher, haven't you gone to pay respects to my senior brothers all these years?"

"Tch, one of them is a senior female student."

Jiraiya raised an eyebrow dismissively, but a smile crept onto his lips.

He dislikes dullness, Hyuga Makoto clearly knows this about his personality!

"Besides, Sage 'm always busy, okay? Who's like you?"

"Let's find some free time and go take a look at the Land of Rain."

Jiraiya Hyuga Makoto Kakashi could say anything, Hyuga Makoto decisively made his decision.

"Nothing should be delayed; if it is, it will simply fade away without you even realizing it."

After a moment's thought, he stood up without making a sound.

"How about this, I'll go ask the Hokage-sama for instructions. Since we're free now, let's go take a look..."

"Don't let regret linger in your heart, only to regret not doing it someday when you think back on it."

After saying this, Hyuga Makoto slowly turned around and walked towards the center of the village.

Only the four who were still training hard remained, along with Jiraiya and Kakashi sitting by the river.

"This kid..."

After a long while, Jiraiya finally showed a smile.

"They're quick to act, much more motivated than I am."

"That's probably what makes him stand out."

Kakashi's eyes, visible outside the fishing rod, also turned into crescent moons. He shook the fishing rod and chuckled softly.

"When he faced Orochimaru, he stayed behind to protect his comrades, which surpasses much of us in that respect."

"Yes."

Jiraiya nodded slightly, and he began to regain control of the fishing rod.

"Let's go see. It's just as that kid said. Let's not leave any more regrets."

"Really...

Kakashi raised his head and looked up at the sky.

"Perhaps, I could also find an opportunity to visit the Land of Grass..."

At this point, both of them fell silent.

Perhaps they were focused on fishing, or perhaps their thoughts had already wandered off to other places.

They didn't know how much time had passed when suddenly the two of them both let out a soft sigh.

"Were we having a fishing competition with him?"

"Um..

So, he ran away?

"It seems to be nothing..."

After he finished speaking, both sides fell silent once again.

They suddenly realized that their evaluation of Hyuga Makoto might not be good enough...

While they remained silent, in the Hokage's Office, Hiruzen Sarutobi frowned as he looked at the documents Danzo had brought him.

"Tsunade, she's actually in the Land of Hot Water..."

"Tsunade's lack of information has always been a matter of great concern to Hiruzen Sarutobi."

Especially after members of both the Akatsuki Organization and the Nucleus Organization began using Wood Release: Wood Release, he hoped to find Tsunade as soon as possible.

After all, she was the granddaughter of the First Hokage, and even under Hyuga Makoto's influence, they began to study Wood Release and think about how to deal with them.

"Even if Ling understands, she's probably not as good as Tsunade!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi himself had done a lot of research, and when Rei looked at the few documents left behind by the First Hokage, he felt dizzy.

That thing doesn't seem to be meant for normal people to see...

"Has the information been confirmed, Danzo?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi pondered for a moment, then looked up at Danzo intently.

"To confirm that Tsunade's actions are not like those of Kirigakure, we need more specific information."

"Hmph, you don't trust this old man?"

Danzo snorted coldly; he had absolutely no faith in Lan Ling's intelligence.

"Tsunade is in a small town in the Land of Hot Water, which is full of casinos. I even know how much she lost in total."

"Stop!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi immediately interrupted Danzo. All other news was fine to discuss, but this was the one thing he least wanted to hear.

Every single one of his disciples has some kind of problem.

"Since you're sure, then contact her and ask her to come back."

"I think you should choose some suitable people to go with."

However, Danzo shook his head.

"Ah?

This choice surprised even Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Wasn't this old friend of mine always eager to climb back up? Why is he sending his disciple here and not wanting any credit whatsoever?

Ling Danzo remained calm, yet a hint of excitement flickered in his deep, unfathomable eyes!

"Orochimaru, you bastard, you've finally contacted me—"

Danzo Ryou has been trying to contact Orochimaru, but Orochimaru hasn't been replying to her messages for a while.

This situation really frustrated him, and to make matters worse, he desperately needed Orochimaru.

His original plan to balance the First Hokage's cells using the Sharingan was designed by Orochimaru.

Ling's plan was essentially doomed after Uchiha Obito burned down the Police Department building!

He doesn't have many Sharingan left, and now the Uchiha is no longer active.

Training takes time, and he has some value in the Anbu; he can only rely on Orochimaru!

"Although this person contacted me and asked for a bunch of inexplicable and mythical information, I did eventually respond."

With Orochimaru as a lead, he believed he could uncover more information about the Akatsuki Organization, then-

"Tsunade is nothing to worry about!"

Anyway, Tsunade's return would be detrimental to him, and even if he sent Aya, Tsunade wouldn't pay any attention, so he might as well ignore it.

"There's been new progress in the Akatsuki Organization's affairs, and I need to follow up closely, especially since I've run out of manpower and funds."

Danzo spoke expressionlessly, not forgetting to ask the beggar for help.

"You should find someone else to Tsunade Tsunade's matter. I need to focus my energy on the Akatsuki Organization disciples!"

"I see----"

Hiruzen Sarutobi strangely, then couldn't help but offer some advice.

"That Nucleus Organization also needs to be monitored. Just because Uchiha Itachi innocent doesn't mean you should—"

Danzo silently stared at Hiruzen Sarutobi. This was just Uchiha Itachi completely unaffected?

That bastard Obito Uchiha Obito ambushed me, stole my First Hokage cells, and even a Kotoamatsukami capsule!

"I understand. I will investigate thoroughly."

However, Danzo dared not say it; if he did, he would be dead!

Nucleus Organization are certainly dangerous, but the Akatsuki Organization is something he hates deeply...

"But I still think we should focus our energy on the Akatsuki Organization's disciples; there are far too many missing-nin in Konoha."

Danzo casually remarked something before turning and leaving.

As Hiruzen Sarutobi watched his old friend Gaiji's departing figure, he felt that this guy must be hiding something from Gaiji again.

However, Danzo's statement is quite accurate; there are far too many missing-nin within the Akatsuki Organization who are actually Konoha's traitors.

"They definitely need to be given special attention and dealt with decisively!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi muttered to herself, pondering which "A" to send over...