Shinichi stepped through the gates of the Senju Main Residence, greeted by a familiar sight. The courtyard was as peaceful and serene as ever.
A gentle breeze stirred the bamboo leaves, their soft rustling filling the air. Sunlight filtered through the trees, dappling the flagstone ground with light and shadow.
Yet the moment he entered the courtyard, he heard a familiar voice tinged with mockery.
"Hey, you little Uchiha Genin!"
The clear voice carried a hint of mischief and teasing. Shinichi looked up to find Tsunade standing beneath the veranda with her arms folded, a wicked smile curling her lips.
Her long golden hair gleamed in the sunlight, and amusement sparkled in her amber eyes. She was clearly using his "Genin" rank to needle him.
Shinichi raised an eyebrow. Wearing his usual lazy smile, he slowly approached and casually shot back, "Oh? I seem to remember someone getting thoroughly beaten by a certain 'little Uchiha Genin' not long ago. And now you have the nerve to laugh at me?"
Tsunade's smile froze, and a vein twitched at her temple.
"What did you say?!" She glared fiercely at Shinichi, her fists already clenched as a dangerous air began to spread around her.
His smile deepened at the sight. He shrugged innocently. "I'm just telling the truth. What's wrong, little Tsunade? Can't accept it? How about another match?"
"You're on!" Tsunade gritted her teeth in fury and was about to step forward when something occurred to her. She gave a cold laugh and stopped, folding her arms. "Forget it. I don't want to bully a Genin who hasn't even completed a D-rank mission. What if I make you cry?"
The corner of Shinichi's eye twitched before a meaningful smile spread across his face. "Oh? Are you sure you're not just making an