Inside a special care ward at Konoha Hospital, the smell of disinfectant mingled with the fresh scent of medicinal herbs. Bare-chested, Ling sat cross-legged on his hospital bed, a faint azure chakra glow surrounding him. Shizune had just finished a thorough treatment to clear his chakra pathways, and fine beads of sweat dotted her forehead.
"You're doing better than expected." Shizune removed her disposable gloves, a hint of relief in her voice. "Your pure water chakra has largely neutralized and expelled the residual dark energy in your body. The main issues now are tears in your chakra pathways from the energy surge and trauma to your internal organs. Those will need rest and medication. At this rate, you should regain basic mobility in about a week, but returning to peak condition will take at least half a month. Until then, absolutely no intense combat or pushing your chakra to its limits."
Ling slowly opened his eyes and nodded. "Thank you for your hard work, Shizune."
"It's my job." As Shizune put away her medical instruments, she hesitated before continuing. "Ling, I know you're impatient, but your health comes first. You've seen the consequences of forcibly detonating that energy core. The threats posed by Root and the Sacred Lord won't be resolved overnight. You need patience."
"I understand." Ling turned his gaze toward the window. Konoha's skies were as clear as ever, but he knew that undercurrents stirred beneath that blue expanse.
After Shizune left, the ward fell quiet again. Ling wasted no time. As he guided the gentle medicinal energy and his own chakra through his body to repair the damage, he spoke with Tobirama in his mind.
[Have you finished analyzing that new cursed seal?] Ling asked inwardly.
[Yes.] Tobirama's voice carried a researcher's composure. *[Based on the energy