Teammates Beyond Expectation

Over the next few days, Hinata Tianyi's life passed in a tense yet regular routine of training.

During the day, he spent most of his time with the cute and enthusiastic medical genin, Aoba Tachibana.

At the edge of the camp, they repeatedly practiced the Hemostasis Technique, Regeneration Technique, and Detoxification Technique on various small animals.

Thanks to the advantages in comprehension and control brought by the increase in his "Ninja" attribute, his progress was astonishingly fast.

His hand seals went from clumsy to fluid, while his chakra gathering and guidance went from barely manageable to stable.

His fine control over the techniques also became increasingly effortless.

Although he was still some distance from true mastery.

In terms of proficiency and theoretical understanding of these three basic medical ninjutsu alone.

He had already firmly surpassed the level of an ordinary genin.

He could even make Aoba Tachibana, his instructor, feel inferior in certain details.

The proficiency of [Basic Medical Ninjutsu (Hemostasis/Regeneration/Detoxification)] on his status panel was also steadily increasing.

At the same time, the cross-world contact at ten every night continued right on schedule.

Meanwhile, the research team back in the country.

Was devoting all its efforts to analyzing Hanzo's toxin samples and chakra physiology data.

But cracking the pinnacle poison of another world and reconstructing the human energy system were clearly not things that could be accomplished overnight.

Most of what came through during their communications were progress reports on each stage and words of encouragement.

The tangible support still mainly consisted of basic medical supplies and precise small tools.

"The antivenom serum will need a few more days.

"But we've already identified several key protein structures in the toxin and patterns of chakra interference.

"We're screening and synthesizing possible inhibitor prototypes."

Academician Chen's voice came through the book, carrying a trace of excitement beneath his exhaustion.

"We've also made preliminary discoveries from analyzing your cell samples.

"There really are organelle structures and energy resonance properties we've never seen before...

"Comrade Tianyi, we'll soon have something more substantial for you!

"Once we crack it, we can put it to large-scale use in our country's military.

"The border hasn't been peaceful lately, and the intensity of the clashes has been steadily increasing."

Tianyi understood that there was no rushing this. He suppressed the anxiety in his heart.

And devoted more of his energy to his current studies and medical work.

Under the direction of Aoba Tachibana, or occasionally Mitarai Aoi when she was free.

He also began treating actual wounded patients whose conditions were relatively stable with medical ninjutsu.

By combining modern first-aid knowledge, the insight of the Byakugan, and preliminary medical chakra.

The results were often better than relying solely on medical ninjutsu, earning him the recognition of his colleagues in the Medical Corps.

That afternoon, he had just finished cleaning a wound and carefully suturing the muscles of a Leaf Village chunin whose leg had been cut by wind blades.

He was about to put away his instruments when an energetic, vaguely familiar shout came from behind him:

"Tianyi! Over here! Tianyi!"

Tianyi turned around and saw a boy wearing a standard Leaf Village ninja flak jacket.

With a bright, sunny smile on his face and short brown hair, waving hard at him.

Running over in quick strides—it was Nawaki! Senju Nawaki!

"Nawaki?" Tianyi was somewhat surprised. After graduation, everyone had gone their separate ways to carry out missions.

He had never expected to reunite in this dangerous border camp.

"Hahaha! Didn't expect that, did you? It's me!" Nawaki ran up and slapped Tianyi hard on the shoulder.

The force was enough to make Tianyi stagger.

"I haven't seen you since graduation! I heard your squad... Uh, anyway, it's great that you're still alive!"

Nawaki's words were straightforward and carried his characteristic concern. Tianyi nodded. "Yeah, I got lucky."

"And let me tell you!" Nawaki's eyes lit up. He lowered his voice, but could not hide his excitement.

"The two of us are going to be on the same team from now on! I just got notified that they're assigning new members to my squad.

"I never expected it to be you! Hahaha, that's awesome! I'm a veteran member now.

"You'll have to listen to my commands from now on!"

He puffed out his chest in mock seriousness, but quickly started laughing again.

"Same team?" Tianyi's heart skipped a beat, though his expression remained unchanged.

"Nawaki, why was I assigned to your team?"

By all logic, hadn't he demonstrated medical ability? Wouldn't it be more appropriate for him to stay with the Medical Corps as support?

Nawaki scratched his head, looking equally confused.

"I'm not really sure about the exact reason... Hmm, my teacher, Orochimaru-sensei, told me.

"He said he'd found me a reliable new teammate who could be a huge help.

"Hehe, I never thought it'd be you. That's great! We can act together again, just like we did back at the Academy!"

Orochimaru... Tianyi's heart sank. So it was him.

Why had he arranged this position for him? Had he noticed his unusual medical abilities?

Did he want Tianyi to serve as a medical caretaker for the First Hokage's grandson, whose identity was so special?

To make sure this important "sapling" had a better chance of surviving on the battlefield?

Or had he... taken an interest in a Hyuga Branch House member with exceptional medical talent.

And wanted to keep him under his nose for close observation?

Neither possibility was good news, especially the latter. Being targeted by Orochimaru.

Meant endless trouble and potential danger.

And Nawaki... Tianyi's mind swiftly recalled this

Original character's tragic ending, which occurred during the Second Shinobi World War.

He had died young after accidentally walking into an Explosive Tag trap.

Would it really be safe to stay by his side? Probably the exact opposite!

Forget it. I'll deal with it when it comes. Tianyi suppressed his turbulent thoughts. There was no use overthinking it now.

The order had come from Orochimaru, and might even involve higher-ups. It was not something he could refuse.

He would take things one step at a time, stay alert, and adapt to the situation.

Fortunately, Orochimaru was still human at this point.

"I see." Tianyi gave Nawaki a somewhat complicated smile.

"Then please take care of me from now on, veteran member."

"Hahaha! No problem, no problem!" Nawaki happily threw an arm around Tianyi's shoulders.

Completely unaware of the turmoil in Tianyi's heart.

Afterward, Tianyi found Mitarai Aoi, who was preparing medicine, and explained the situation.

"They're transferring you to Nawaki's team?" Aoi was somewhat surprised. She put down her medicine pestle and wiped her hands.

"This is... an arrangement from above?"

"Yeah, it should be Orochimaru-sama's decision." Tianyi nodded.

Aoi pondered for a moment, then a relieved and somewhat gratified smile appeared on her face.

"This... might be a good thing. Nawaki is the First Hokage's grandson and Orochimaru-sama's disciple.

"His identity is special, and his strength and potential are highly valued.

"Being at his side may make your missions safer on one hand.

"On the other, you'll gain more experience and attention.

"With your talent, you shouldn't be limited to the rear Medical Corps."

It's less safe by his side... Tianyi laughed bitterly inwardly, but he could not say it aloud. He could only nod.

"I understand, Sister Aoi. Thank you for your guidance and care during this time."

"You're the one who's been a great help to us." Aoi spoke earnestly, her light brown eyes looking at Tianyi.

"Remember, wherever you are, your abilities are meant to save lives.

"Stay true to yourself and act cautiously. If you have any medical questions, you can come back and find me anytime."

"Yes! Thank you, Sister Aoi!" Tianyi gave Aoi a solemn bow.

This steady, dependable senior was one of the few people who had shown him kindness and guidance since he came to this world.

After bidding farewell to Aoi and the Medical Corps, Tianyi packed his simple belongings.

Then followed the enthusiastic Nawaki toward the area on the other side of the camp reserved for combat squads.

Nawaki's squad was stationed in a somewhat larger tent.

When they lifted the flap and entered, someone was already sitting inside.

He was lowering his head as he wiped a uniquely shaped short blade. Hearing them enter, he looked up.

This was a boy who appeared two or three years older than Nawaki and Tianyi.

His Deep Blue hair was tied behind his head, with a few loose strands hanging over his forehead.

His features were cold, and his gaze was sharp as an eagle's.

He wore a standard Leaf Village combat uniform with a light chainmail vest over it.

His entire bearing gave off the impression of someone capable, silent, and difficult to approach.

"Hey! Kaede! Look who I brought!" Nawaki introduced him enthusiastically.

"This is Hinata Tianyi, my old classmate. He's super amazing!

"He'll be a member of our Leaf Blade Squad from now on! Tianyi, this is Moonlight Kaede.

"He's our frontline assault fighter, and his swordsmanship is incredible!"

Moonlight Kaede was a member of the Moonlight Clan, one of the families that inherited Leaf Style Swordsmanship.

He excelled in techniques such as Leaf Style Swordsmanship: Dance of the Crescent Moon.

With keen perception and a calm, composed personality, he was a reliable veteran genin in Nawaki's squad.

Moonlight Kaede's gaze lingered on Tianyi for a moment.

Especially as it swept over the faint mark of the Caged Bird on his forehead. He gave a slight nod.

That counted as a greeting. His voice was flat. "Moonlight Kaede. Medical ninja?"

"Hinata Tianyi." Tianyi returned the greeting, equally concise.

"I know some basic medical treatment and first aid." He did not overemphasize his special abilities.

Before new teammates whose backgrounds he did not know, it was necessary to keep a low profile.

"Hahaha! Great!"

Nawaki seemed completely unaware of the somewhat cold first encounter between the two. He clapped his hands hard.

"Our Leaf Blade Squad is finally complete!

"Ninjutsu support: me, Senju Nawaki!

"Frontline assault: Moonlight Kaede!

"Medical support and reconnaissance: Hinata Tianyi!

"This time, we'll definitely be able to carry out more and greater missions.

"We'll beat those Rain ninja until they're fleeing in all directions! For Leaf Village!"

Watching Nawaki wave his fist and shout with high spirits and idealistic fervor.

That bright, sunny smile and those eyes without even a trace of gloom.

Made Tianyi feel as though he saw another familiar golden-haired figure in a daze.

He really does look like Naruto... Tianyi sighed inwardly.

No wonder Tsunade-sama would later place her feelings and hopes for Nawaki onto Naruto.

But this energetic young man before him, full of dreams.

His future... probably would not turn out as he wished.

Tianyi glanced at Moonlight Kaede, silently wiping his short blade, then at Nawaki, excitedly planning for the future.

He took a deep breath and temporarily suppressed all his doubts and unease.

No matter what, he would do everything he could to survive...