I, Tsunade, Will Protect Everything in Konoha!

Konoha, with its beautiful scenery, is truly eye-catching.

"One hundred laps! One hundred more laps! Youth never gives up!"

"Charge!"

Might Guy charged forward frantically.

Behind them, Genma Shiranui and the others held their breath and forced themselves to keep up.

They don't prioritize speed, they only aim to get it done.

This is still in the present.

A little over a month ago, they were lucky to run 300 laps, but now they can run 400 laps, a remarkable improvement.

"Are you all here? Is it too late to join now?"

"Kyohiko?"

Everyone turned their heads.

Kyohiko and Kakashi were standing on a tree. The next moment, the two of them Body Flicker Technique down and appeared between the three of them.

Everyone gathered around.

This wasn't their first meeting. They had met once in the past month to exchange insights on Taijutsu, without delving into advanced techniques, but both had made contributions, thus establishing the rules thoroughly.

"Kyohiko, Kakashi? What brings you two to training today? Didn't I hear you went to the Jonin promotion ceremony?"

Genma Shiranui then sighed with envy, "I'm two years older than you, and I'm still a Genin. I haven't even participated in the Chunin Ninja Exams yet."

"There will be opportunities, it's just that this year was special, which is why we couldn't participate. You guys are quite strong, you'll definitely be able to next year."

Kyohiko said solemnly.

This isn't meant to be a consolation; after a period of rigorous training, Genma Shiranui and Ebisu's abilities have indeed improved considerably. While they certainly can't compare to Guy and Kakashi, who have trained since childhood, they are still much stronger than before.

She was definitely an elite among her classmates.

However.

Comparing goods can lead to losses.

Compared to Kyohiko's Jonin, even Kakashi's 6-year-old Chunin pales in comparison.

Are you hungry? I brought some food.

Kyohiko mentioned sushi.

Might Guy immediately exclaimed, "Great! We'll need the energy to run after we finish eating!"

He hurriedly took the things and ran to the riverbank, where the five of them sat down and began to chat.

Ebisu sighed, saying that now only they were practicing together.

A month ago, many people ran and trained together, but not many could stick to it; only a handful did, and recently even the last one disappeared.

Kyohiko had a vague recollection of that person, because it was Obito Uchiha.

"He didn't come either?"

"Yes, I haven't seen him much lately, not even when he's doing good deeds on the street."

Genma Shiranui, muttered, "Tsk, could something have gone wrong?"

"The graduation exams are coming up soon, and he probably wants to take them too."

Kyohiko immediately understood the reason when he thought of Lin.

Back in school, Obito had Rin as a friend, so he didn't feel any urgency. But now that Rin has participated in the early training program for Medical Ninja, she's practically half-graduated from the Ninja Academy.

That guy wants to graduate too?

He couldn't help but sigh afterwards.

Time can feel both long and short; in the blink of an eye, another two or three months will pass and another year will be gone.

Fortunately, all the efforts were not in vain.

Kyohiko snapped his thoughts back to the present.

He looked at Genma Shiranui Ebisu.

The two have different strengths.

Genma Shiranui excels at manipulating Ninja Tools, his Ninjutsu is relatively average, but his Taijutsu has improved significantly recently.

Ebisu was skilled in Ninjutsu and Genjutsu.

but.

actually...

"Ebisu, we chatted together at the last gathering, and I told you then that your theories were very solid and your logic was clear."

Kyohiko said.

"Thanks."

Ebisu became somewhat reserved upon hearing this. At the gathering half a month ago, he was unaware that Kyohiko was about to be promoted to Jonin. Now that he knew the news, he unconsciously felt a sense of distance due to their different statuses.

Kai, however, remained nonchalant. "His strengths are one thing, but he talks a good game but can't actually do anything. What's the use of talent if he still has to practice?"

The words were direct, but...

Everyone nodded, including Ebisu himself.

However, Kyohiko smiled and said, "What I mean is, you can try starting from the theory, breaking down Ninjutsu, and improving and mastering Ninjutsu from the inside out. Everyone's situation is different, so the learning method cannot be generalized."

Theory and deconstruction are both essential for being Teacher.

Ebisu was able to become Special Jōnin through education, which shows he had talent. However, it's a pity that he could understand many techniques but couldn't learn or improve them.

Kyohiko couldn't offer guidance before, but this Water Wall has been upgraded, and it comes with a lot of knowledge about Hand Seals and disassembling Ninjutsu, so he can share some useful information.

Not only Ebisu, but the other three listened attentively as well.

However, Might Guy soon felt dizzy and disoriented, his head spinning, and he simply couldn't continue to comprehend anything.

After he finished speaking, Ebisu be deep in thought.

"I understand what you mean..."

Then, he shared some of his thoughts and techniques on Fire Style that he had recently studied.

Following that, Genma Shiranui also talked about the technique he had been inspired by last time and went back to study. Kakashi and Guy also discussed some techniques and their insights on improvement.

Everyone gained some insights.

but.

Ebisu understood that his insights and experiences were not equivalent to the knowledge shared by Kyohiko and Kakashi, because the other party didn't really need Fire Style techniques.

He could only secretly vow to study and cultivate himself even harder.

but.

Kyohiko's main purpose in coming today was not the gathering, but rather...

"Kai, have you guys been on any missions lately?"

"Yes, I do have some, but I mostly do D-level missions. I rarely encounter C-level missions, and they're not very difficult."

Kai answered.

Kyohiko said, "In a while, you might be going on missions with me and Kakashi."

Kakashi remained silent.

"Ah?"

The three of them stood up together, all with expressions of disbelief.

They looked at each other in bewilderment.

Then, Genma Shiranui spat out the Senbon he was holding and laughed, "As expected, wasn't it? Guy is always more hardworking and talented than us. He's just not good at Ninjutsu and Genjutsu, but he doesn't have that weakness when he's with you guys."

He looked at Kai.

"Might Guy, you'll improve even faster if you're with them, congratulations!"

"I..."

Might Guy was completely bewildered.

He was familiar with his two teammates and never considered forming a new team.

Ebisu asked worriedly, "If you're all together, the mission won't be easy, will it? Are you Kyohiko the captain?"

"No, I'm too young. I'd be Jonin to even be a Jonin, let alone lead a team. The team leader is Minato Jonin."

Kyohiko dispelled their doubts.

Upon hearing Ebisu became even more worried.

"Minato- senpai... I've heard you're very strong, but with a team like that, the missions you undertake must be quite difficult, right?"

"Um."

Kyohiko nodded.

Might Guy looked at the two of them, knowing they were worried about him, and was secretly pleased, but his face lit up with a bright smile, revealing his White Fang and giving a thumbs up.

"We've had enough of D-rank and C-rank. Difficulty is what makes it challenging, and that's why we need Konoha's Azure Beast to step in!"

His gesture quickly turned the tide.

The Azure Beast of Konoha...

Genma Shiranui Ebisu couldn't help but chuckle.

This is the nickname Kai gave himself.

but.

The thought of parting made them truly unhappy.

"As ninjas, Genin is just the beginning..."

Kakashi couldn't help but say.

Seeing their state, he didn't finish his sentence.

Kyohiko pulled him along.

"Kai, we're leaving now."

"Okay, thank you, Kyohiko, and Kakashi too."

Although Might Guy wasn't particularly clever, he wasn't stupid either. He guessed that Kyohiko and Kakashi had come specifically for this matter, and that the gathering and exchange just now was actually aimed at helping Ebisu and Genma Shiranui become stronger.

"I won't bother you anymore."

Kakashi bows.

Then, the two left, leaving only Kai and the other two.

At this point, none of the three had any desire to run anymore.

The very next day, Minato Namikaze and Kyohiko gathered at the Hokage Building in Konoha, and Might Guy was also notified.

The new four-person team is assembled for the first time.

"The four of you are all young elites. The purpose of bringing you together is to help you improve and grow together, and for Minato to also enhance his leadership skills..."

Hiruzen Sarutobi explained his intentions.

Everyone, listen to the instructions obediently.

Thus, the strange tales of the Will of Fire echoed in the meeting room, but Might Guy listened with great enthusiasm, occasionally letting out a roar in perfect harmony, giving Hiruzen Sarutobi a considerable emotional impact.

so.

When everyone went to collect their missions, Hiruzen Sarutobi was very happy and pleased.

Downstairs, Might Guy exclaimed excitedly, "Kyohiko, what the Lord Hokage said is absolutely right! It's exactly what you meant!"

"Huh? Is that why you're so excited?"

Kyohiko was surprised.

"Yes! What he said is pretty much the same as what you said, isn't it? We, the Dust, help each other and progress together. Ultimately, isn't the Will of Fire about everyone progressing together and contributing to protecting the country, the village, and everyone else?"

Might Guy felt a sense of pride in being a part of it.

Although he wasn't as ignorant as Naruto, he still felt—

Kyohiko's explanation is almost perfect; it's truly remarkable!

Kakashi's lips twitched slightly.

Is it possible that Kyohiko's thoughts and way of thinking are derived from the "Will of Fire"?

Although Kai is not weak, being on the same team as him is a real test of one's nerves.

But.

The orders have been issued, but what can be done about it?

Kakashi took a deep breath and looked at Minato Namikaze: "Captain, are we going to the main hall to receive a mission, or do we have some other duties?"

"We already have a mission."

Minato Namikaze's expression was serious. "Let's go, we can talk as we walk."

"Yes!"

Everyone immediately became serious.

Passing through the mission hall means that today's mission was issued by the village.

"Captain, what's our mission?"

"Kyohiko should remember you. Do you recall the Hizashi you saved last time?"

"Um."

Kyohiko nodded.

Minato Namikaze explained, "Our mission objective this time is to track down the enemy who injured them earlier. According to intelligence, this person is very likely Sasori of the Red Sands missing-nin Sunagakure."

He then shared the information with everyone.

This information came from Sunagakure. Not only their team, but also the Ino-Shika-Cho trio participated in this mission. Because they were all very fast, they were included as well.

but.

Kyohiko felt there was another reason--

Another conflict within the village may be about to begin.

The battle for public opinion!

There were various reasons for sending him away; perhaps he didn't want to get involved, or perhaps Hiruzen Sarutobi had other motives. In any case, it was just as Tsunade had said.

No matter what, Hiruzen Sarutobi is Hokage who survived a chaotic era, and should not be underestimated.

certainly.

It's possible that Hiruzen Sarutobi and Danzo were both waiting for an opportunity.

Waiting for an injured person who requires Tsunade's healing skills!

Beneath the tranquil surface of the water in Konoha, undercurrents were already surging.

As Kyohiko and his group left the village and headed towards the border, a small team returning from elsewhere also hurriedly brought the wounded to Konoha Hospital. Before even reaching the hospital, they shouted.

"Help! Help!"

Soon, the Medical Team arrived from the hospital.

They quickly checked the injuries, and then-

Jaji frowned.

The injury was severe; the bones near his right knee were almost shattered, as if caused by being compressed by Earth Style Ninjutsu. The most troublesome thing was that they had returned from the border two or three days later.

Some injuries have become adhered together, with bone fragments and stone debris integrated into the flesh and joints, and many areas showing signs of infection.

Such injuries are extremely difficult to treat!

If not handled properly, the best outcome would be amputation, but that would make it very difficult to continue serving as a ninja.

"Push the person inside!"

Jaji shouted, directing the Medical Team.

Once inside, the Jonin who had brought him Jonin Jaji's hand, his face filled with tension.

Can Shinryu be saved?

"This..."

Jaji hesitated, finding it difficult to give a definite answer.

At this moment, the person next to him said, "Didn't Lady Tsunade go back to the village? Can't she go too?"

"Otake!"

However, the Jonin who had just grabbed Jaji Jonin around and rebuked the other party.

He hesitated for a long time, then finally said silently, "Please, do everything you can to save Shinryu. His parents and wife died in battle, and he has children to raise. He absolutely cannot..."

At this point, tears streamed down his face.

His companion lamented, "Gongdao, weren't you and Lady Tsunade on the same team? Why didn't you ask her for help? I think she would definitely heal you!"

Kuno Konoha was taken aback upon hearing this.

He did indeed carry out missions with Tsunade and Dan Katō, but that mission also led to Dan's death.

He was reluctant to recall it.

But.

If Tsunade to take action, she could definitely cure this illness!

He hesitated for a moment, then gritted his teeth and looked at Jaji.

"Tsunade, is she... is she in the hospital?"

Jaji hesitated for a moment, then said, "Yes, but Lady Tsunade is currently researching an important medicine and is unable to treat him. We will do our best to save your companion's leg."

"Where is she? I'll go beg her, I'll beg her to help me..."

Kuno Konoha got impatient.

At this moment, someone nearby sighed.

"Don't even think about it. I heard that Lady Tsunade had an accident a long time ago and is simply not capable of participating in surgery now."

"What?"

Kuno Konoha was shocked.

"I heard that's how it is; Lady Tsunade hasn't performed a single surgery since returning to the village."

The "kind-hearted people" in the hall sighed, "What a pity, we wonder what happened..."

Lady Tsunade...

Unable to treat?

Kuno Konoha recalled the time when he, Tsunade, and Dan Katō were on a mission, and then Dan Katō died unexpectedly.

Then, there's the Nawaki...

He vaguely understood.

Tsunade may have genuinely encountered a problem and was unable to participate in the surgery, which is why she temporarily left Konoha after Nawaki's death.

but.

Why did she come back?

Yes or no...

Just as the hall was filled with discussion and Jaji was struggling to stop it, a voice rang out.

"What's wrong? Oh, Gongdao, you're back... What happened?"

Hearing the commotion, Tsunade came out of her lab and went downstairs, where she saw this scene.

certainly.

She actually knew about the commotion downstairs much earlier, but the reason she came out now was because she didn't want to prolong the ordeal and worsen her condition.

"Tsunade, my comrade is seriously injured, but your condition... I heard you can't have surgery right now?"

Kuno Konoha's eyes revealed a look of reluctance.

As a witness to Dan's death, he knew very well how heartbroken Tsunade back then, so after guessing some of the inside story, he felt somewhat reluctant and couldn't bring himself to ask for help.

Tsunade's fingers trembled slightly.

Immediately, Otake stepped forward, knelt down with a thud, and tears streamed down his face.

"Please save Shinryu! He was ambushed by Iwa Ninja! He has a child; he can't be without legs!"

"Lady Tsunade, you..."

Jaji looked at Tsunade.

A hint of fear flashed across Tsunade's face, causing everyone to sigh inwardly.

As expected, the rumors were true!

Konoha's most respected Medical Ninja in Konoha is now truly in trouble and unable to participate in the surgery; otherwise, given Tsunade's personality, she would never hesitate like this.

Inside the hall, everyone remained silent.

Even the outside was surrounded by many passing villagers.

The next moment, Tsunade's lips trembled.

"To be honest, after the deaths of Duan and Nawaki, I did develop Hemophobia. During this time, I've been forcing myself to adapt, telling myself I absolutely cannot give up..."

The entire room fell silent.

Otake was in despair.

Kuno Konoha filled with a mixture of despair and emotion, but soon, panic appeared on his face as he tried to stop Tsunade from continuing, "Tsunade, that's enough! That's enough! Jaji, stop her..."

"No, Gongdao, I couldn't save Duan and Nawaki, so I can't let everyone else sacrifice themselves!"

Tsunade scanned the area, finally fixing her gaze on Jaji.

"You go ahead first, wait for me to change my clothes, and I'll come to preside over the surgery immediately!"

"Lady Tsunade, are you really sure you can do it?"

Jaji was equally shocked.

She knew Tsunade might be unwell, but she didn't expect it to be Hemophobia for Medical Ninja.

"No problem, go ahead, trust me."

Tsunade said gently.

"Yes! I'll go prepare!"

Jaji bowed deeply, then turned and entered the operating room.

Tsunade forward and walked to the door, her tone firm and bold.

"Protecting the village and everyone was the lifelong goal of my grandfather, my Second Grandfather, and Duan and Nawaki, and it is the same for me!"

"I will protect everything in Konoha!"

After saying that, she strode forward towards her office.

After a moment, Tsunade did change her clothes, followed by Shizune, whose face was filled with anxiety and fear, proving that Tsunade was indeed in bad shape.

but.

Tsunade resolutely entered the operating room.

At that moment, the entire venue fell silent.

Kuno Konoha couldn't hold back his tears.

Otake knelt on the ground and refused to get up.

Outside, the villagers no longer had any intention of leaving after eating the melon.

Everyone wants to see...

Can Tsunade heal that ninja?

As time passed and it approached noon, the number of people at Konoha Hospital increased significantly.

Many people came after hearing the news.

Even worse.

Now, news of Tsunade's "Hemophobia" has spread throughout Konoha, and everyone knows about Tsunade condition. However, the bold words Tsunade before entering the operating room still echo in everyone's ears.

The First and Second Hokage, Dan Katō, Nawaki...

Tsunade lost too many family members.

Everyone is hoping for a miracle.

Inside the operating room, Jaji observed Tsunade, witnessing firsthand how Tsunade's initial trembling and fear quickly subsided with each deep breath.

Tsunade's hands, too, went from trembling to calm, and finally to unwavering resolve.

"Let's begin!"

His tone was calm and gentle, making one unconsciously believe him.

She can do it!

Time passes unnoticed indoors.

This surgery was indeed very difficult; even Tsunade couldn't cure it easily. However, her skills were undoubtedly top-notch—removing, extracting poison, repositioning, and treating...

The treatment proceeded smoothly, with the entire Medical Team cooperating quietly. Only Tsunade's commands echoed in the operating room.

She is the queen here!

Inside the hall, everyone waited, while many of those outside had been dispersed, leaving only a few.

but.

On the streets outside Konoha Hospital, many people still stood waiting and watching, hoping to get a result as soon as possible.

finally.

Jaji emerged from the operating room and walked wearily Lightning Style: Earth Flash the lobby, her face betraying her suppressed excitement.

She glanced around and said softly, "The surgery was a success! But please, everyone in the hospital, don't make too much noise!"

Inside the hospital, everyone remained restrained.

soon.

"Oh!!!"

The shouts echoed through the streets outside Konoha Hospital.

Most people were genuinely happy for Tsunade's return to the stage, but some had different thoughts.

Tsunade is back!

but.

Their intention was not to help Tsunade announce her return under such circumstances.

The current outcome is contrary to their goals!

But with public opinion so overwhelming, how could they dare to speak out?

At this point, all we could do was cheer along.

Inside the hospital, after his Kuno Konoha was filled with concern and anxiety. "Jaji, is Tsunade alright?"

"The surgery was very demanding, Lady Tsunade persevered and completed it. Now she's exhausted and asleep."

Jaji said softly, "Shinryu 'Jonin surgery was a great success, and his future actions will not be affected in any way! Apart from Lady Tsunade, no one could have performed such a perfect surgery!"

"Yes, thank you, and Lady Tsunade, I, I..."

The three Konoha elites were crying and laughing, expressing their gratitude so intensely that Jaji was overwhelmed.

She offered a few words of comfort, gave instructions on hospital precautions, and then turned and left.

otherwise.

Who knows what these guys are up to next?

Furthermore, it is Lady Tsunade who deserves credit...

It's not her.

However, thinking back to what had just happened, she couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration.

As expected of Lady Tsunade!