Shūichi withdrew his gaze from Hayate Gekkō and turned to the middle-aged man beside him.
Hayate's father, Kagami Gekkō, hurriedly explained, "Jonin Shūichi, Hayate's coughing and difficulty breathing were triggered by the awakening of our family's Transparent Escape Kekkei Genkai. However, there's no history of such symptoms in our clan."
Kagami's face grew somber as he continued, "Then again, it's been a long time since anyone in our clan has awakened a Kekkei Genkai."
He bowed deeply at a ninety-degree angle, his voice emotional, "Please, I beg you—save Hayate! The Gekkō Clan will be forever grateful!"
Shūichi quickly responded, "Please, no need to bow like that, and don't worry too much. No matter the situation, we will do our best!"
At that moment, Nono finished her initial treatment and said, "For now, his condition has been stabilized."
"However, whether or not this is a case of Kekkei Genkai disease still requires a series of tests."
She added, "The fibrotic parts of Hayate's lungs cannot be healed. They'll have to be surgically removed, and we'll use the Healing Regeneration Jutsu to regrow the missing parts."
"If it's not related to Kekkei Genkai disease, the surgery should resolve the problem completely."
"But if it is Kekkei Genkai disease..." Nono's expression grew more serious.
Kekkei Genkai disease—a challenging issue in the ninja world.
It was rare, of course, since Kekkei Genkai abilities themselves were quite uncommon.
Hearing this, Shūichi quickly said, "Let's wait until we determine whether it's Kekkei Genkai disease or not."
"I'll go prepare for the surgery. The tests can be conducted concurrently by the other staff."
Nono nodded. "That's the plan."
With Tsunade absent, Nono was the most skilled medical ninja at Konoha Hospital. She led the procedure, with herself, Asuka, and Shūichi, alongside Shizune as the assistant, performing the surgery on Hayate Gekkō.
Meanwhile, another senior medical ninja and their team collected biopsy samples from Hayate during the preparation phase.
They collected samples of blood, spinal fluid, and from the fibrotic lung tissue.
The final biopsy required a Chakra Scalpel and the Delicate Extraction Technique, both of which could only be performed by medical ninjas at the jōnin level or higher.
Of course, traditional methods combined with medical ninjutsu could also be used to perform an open-chest biopsy.
...
With a command from Nono, everyone quickly sprang into action, and Kagami Gekkō, as a family member, was escorted out of the room.
After Shūichi completed the preoperative preparations, he noticed that the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, had arrived.
It suddenly clicked—Hayate Gekkō must still be a student at the Ninja Academy, looking around six or seven years old.
A ninja academy student awakening a Kekkei Genkai was a significant event.
Whether as the academy's principal or the Hokage, Hiruzen's presence here made perfect sense.
"Lord Third Hokage!"
Shūichi stepped forward to greet him.
Hiruzen, already briefed on the situation, nodded and said, "Hayate is in your hands now; do your best!"
Shūichi replied firmly, "Rest assured, Lord Third, we will do everything we can."
At that moment, the door to the room opened, and the biopsy samples were all collected. Shūichi and the others immediately wheeled Hayate Gekkō into the operating room.
However, this operating room was not filled with machines. Aside from a stone bed in the center, the room was mostly empty.
Yet, the seals drawn on the floor made it clear that this was no ordinary room.
Placing Hayate on the stone bed surrounded by seals, Shūichi carefully removed Hayate's shirt and quickly drew a series of seals on his chest.
These seals, along with the ones on the floor, were designed to aid in the Healing Regeneration Jutsu that would be used later.
Once the seals were drawn, and everything was ready, Nono and Asuka positioned themselves at the two formation points near Hayate's head, while Shūichi stood next to the stone platform.
Placing his left hand on the seal on Hayate's chest, a green light began to glow, enveloping Hayate's entire torso.
Then, Shūichi raised his right hand, channeling chakra to form a Chakra Scalpel.
Suddenly, he paused and looked over at Shizune, "Shizune, you'll handle the Delicate Extraction Technique!"
"Eh?"
Shizune hesitated. "Can I do it?"
Nono Yakushi smiled reassuringly, "Don't worry, with Shūichi here, everything will be fine."
"Understood!"
Shizune nodded, her face serious, and stepped forward.
Until now, she had only practiced the Delicate Extraction Technique on small animals.
Seeing that Shizune was ready, Shūichi commanded, "Let's begin!"
Without further delay, his Chakra Scalpel entered Hayate's chest.
The scalpel didn't harm any of Hayate's other tissues—only when it reached the fibrotic area did it show its sharpness.
This was the brilliance of the Chakra Scalpel.
Kabuto Yakushi had once used this technique to sever Tsunade's diaphragm, causing her breathing difficulties, though her body remained unscathed.
However, this was a medical procedure, not a battle, so Shūichi carefully cut away a small portion of Hayate's fibrotic lung tissue. Shizune immediately used the Delicate Extraction Technique, encasing the removed tissue in a chakra bubble and slowly pulling it out of the body.
At the same time, Nono activated the formation, and with Asuka's help, used the Healing Regeneration Jutsu to regenerate the removed lung tissue through cell division.
No external medium, such as hair, was needed due to Asuka's powerful Yang Release chakra and the small size of the excised tissue, along with the natural stem cells present in the lungs.
They repeated the process—cutting, extracting, and healing.
First the left lung, then the right.
Thankfully, the fibrotic areas were not extensive, and with Asuka's powerful chakra support, the surgery proceeded without interruptions, taking only half an hour to complete.
However, Shizune was thoroughly exhausted, and Shūichi had to help her out of the operating room.
"You did an excellent job," Shūichi praised as they sat down to rest. "You've mastered the technique."
Shizune, though tired, smiled with relief and pride.
Meanwhile, Hayate was transferred back to his room, where numerous medical devices were hooked up to monitor his condition.
After resting for about half an hour, Shūichi and Shizune returned to the room.
The biopsy results were in.
Shūichi took one of the reports, his expression growing serious as he looked at Kagami Gekkō. "It seems the likelihood of this being Kekkei Genkai disease is very high."
Nono and another medical ninja, Oushou, nodded in agreement. Oushou explained, "From our observations, even after the surgery, Hayate's lungs are showing signs of deterioration, though at a very slow rate."
"However, it's clear that using his Kekkei Genkai will accelerate this process."
Lung fibrosis is irreversible, and the only treatment is the procedure they had just performed.
Nono Yakushi added, "The most concerning issue is his age—he's still very young, which will affect his development."
Kagami's face darkened with worry. "Will this prevent Hayate from becoming a ninja, Lady Nono?"
"No."
Shūichi responded, placing the report down. "His physical abilities will be somewhat limited, and the respiratory issues will impact him in combat."
"But the most important problem is that we can't fully resolve this."
"Every time we remove the fibrotic tissue, it will grow back, and this repeated cycle will take a toll on his life."
"Our current recommendation is to minimize the use of his Kekkei Genkai to slow down the progression."
Kagami looked devastated. "Is there no way to completely cure this?"
Shūichi shook his head. "The exact mechanisms of Kekkei Genkai disease are still not fully understood, but from what we can see, it's caused by genetic mutations and defects in his immune system."
While Shūichi had some ideas about treating the immune system, the deeper issue lay in the genetic mutations caused by the Kekkei Genkai itself.
So, they were back to square one.
Calming his thoughts, Shūichi reassured, "Don't lose hope, Uncle Kagami. Hayate is still young. There's plenty of time to find a solution."
"And for now, it won't stop him from becoming a ninja."
"In fact, awakening his Kekkei Genkai, even without using its full power, will still give Hayate an edge."
Just then, Hayate's eyelids fluttered, and he opened his eyes.
His vision was blurry at first, but after a moment, he focused and saw Shūichi standing beside him. His eyes lit up with excitement, "Shūichi!"
Shūichi was his idol, after all!
But then, Hayate remembered his condition before he lost consciousness.
With a warm smile, Shūichi greeted him, "Hello, Hayate!"
Hayate looked around at everyone, especially his father's worried face, and his expression fell. "Senpai, does this mean I can't become a ninja anymore?"
Shūichi smiled reassuringly, "That's not true."
"Although there are some minor issues, nothing will stop you from becoming a ninja right now."
Hayate's spirits lifted instantly. "Really?"
"Father, is what Shūichi Senpai said true?"
Kagami, having composed himself, nodded. "Of course! Shūichi is a medical jōnin, after all."
"That's great!"
Hayate finally relaxed, his fears melting away.
Shūichi then said, "Well, Hayate, how about you try out your Kekkei Genkai for us?"
"Alright!"
Hayate nodded eagerly and focused inward to activate his power.
Soon, Hayate Gekkō's figure vanished from everyone's sight.
Not only that, but even his presence disappeared completely.
However, he was still detectable through Shūichi's Listening Technique, and more than that...
Suddenly, Shūichi's eyes ignited with blue flames.
Heat Vision!
"The body's heat radiation hasn't disappeared…"
Through his Heat Vision, Shūichi could see the now transparent Hayate Gekkō.
Lying on the bed, Hayate also sensed Shūichi's gaze. Seeing those bright blue, fiery eyes, he was taken aback. "Is this... some kind of dōjutsu kekkei genkai that Shūichi-senpai possesses?"
"I've never heard of Shūichi-senpai having a kekkei genkai…"
Shūichi deactivated his Heat Vision and said, "Alright, Hayate, you can stop the technique now."
Hayate immediately dispelled the technique, but then he suddenly felt his breathing become labored. He quickly patted his chest in concern.
Meanwhile, Nono and Oushou were closely watching the monitor, which showed that the condition in Hayate's lungs had indeed worsened with the use of his kekkei genkai.
It was now certain—Hayate had Kekkei Disease.
Gasping for air, Hayate finally caught his breath and, panicking, asked, "Shūichi-senpai, what's happening to me?"
Shūichi reassured him, "Your kekkei genkai puts a lot of strain on your lungs, so you need to use its power with caution."
"Also, make sure to train and strengthen your lung capacity."
With that, Shūichi, Nono, and Oushou left the room and headed to the office.
Once there, Shūichi asked, "Oushou-senpai, with all your experience, have you encountered Kekkei Disease before?"
Oushou, a cold and stern woman in her forties, replied, "I haven't encountered Kekkei Disease directly, unless you count the Uchiha clan."
The Uchiha...
Shūichi shook his head.
Then he thought of the Kurama clan. Like the Gekkō clan, the Kurama clan had also gone many years without anyone awakening their kekkei genkai.
"I wonder if Yakumo Kurama has been born yet. Would her condition also count as Kekkei Disease?" Shūichi's thoughts wandered.
Meanwhile, Nono and Oushou continued discussing Hayate Gekkō's case, searching for ways to slow the progression of his disease.
As for a complete cure, that was still unrealistic.
Even with their advanced medical techniques, they were not yet able to fix genetic mutations.
Listening to their discussion, Shūichi's mind turned to Hashirama Cells.
If Hayate Gekkō could handle them, Hashirama Cells might be a solution.
Aside from Hashirama Cells...
Shūichi thought for a moment and then considered Orochimaru's human modification techniques.
"If there's no way to solve the root cause of Kekkei Disease, then maybe it's time to treat the symptoms instead…"
Shūichi shifted his thinking. Perhaps using Orochimaru's methods to modify Hayate's body, strengthening his lungs or even replacing their function, could be a viable option.
However, such a drastic method required careful consideration, especially since he would need to get approval from the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, to maintain political correctness.
"If I submit a report, I'll need to prepare thoroughly. Hmm... I'll wait until Orochimaru's soft body modifications are complete before proceeding."
After making up his mind, Shūichi turned to Nono and Oushou, saying, "Director, Oushou-senpai, I think I should pay Lady Tsunade a visit."
Nono Yakushi and Oushou both nodded in agreement, as they had already considered this idea.
When it came to medical expertise, Tsunade was still the best in Konoha.
...
After leaving Konoha Hospital, Shūichi arrived at Tsunade's home. One of his shadow clones was still there, and when she saw both of them, Tsunade couldn't help but be surprised.
"Shūichi, is something wrong?" Tsunade asked.
After dispelling his shadow clone, Shūichi sat down and explained Hayate Gekkō's situation.
Tsunade shook her head after hearing the explanation. "There's no way to cure Kekkei Disease. What you've been doing is already the best approach."
Shūichi wasn't disappointed by this response. Instead, he said, "I actually came to ask about the village's research on the First Hokage's cells."
Tsunade frowned. "Are you planning to use that to solve the boy's problem?"
Shūichi shook his head. "I haven't seen the research yet, but I know that the First Hokage's cells aren't something an ordinary person can handle."
"The reason I need to review the First Hokage's cell research is related to a medical ninjutsu we're developing."
"If we want to achieve rapid healing, the quickest way is through cell metabolism and division."
Tsunade nodded. This aligned with current research on how to accelerate cellular metabolism and division.
Shūichi continued, "During my training with the Lightning Release Body Flicker, I noticed that lightning-style chakra can permanently enhance cellular activity."
Tsunade nodded again. "Yes, that's true. The Raikage's physical strength is partly due to that kind of training."
Shūichi shifted the conversation. "Lady Tsunade, you're also aware of Asuka's special condition, right?"
"Her body has an incredible healing ability and can even replenish chakra, which fundamentally stems from her strong Yang Release."
"However, Yang Release can manifest in different ways. For example, Asuka can replenish stamina and heal others, but she can't heal herself."
"There are stories about the First Hokage having extraordinary self-healing abilities. My theory is that his cells are so active they can divide automatically when injured—without requiring any conscious control or hand seals."
Shūichi likened Hashirama's cells to some highly reactive elements, needing only a small stimulus to trigger a powerful reaction.
This wasn't just a wild guess but a hypothesis based on his own experience with increasing cellular activity, the effects of tailed beast chakra on cells, and his observations of Asuka's unique constitution.
If only he had his own lab, Shūichi would conduct further research on Asuka's cells.
After pondering Shūichi's words, Tsunade got up, retrieved a scroll, and handed it to him. "Take a look."
"Your theory is correct. My grandfather's cells do have incredible vitality. That's why none of the previous experiments succeeded—no one could withstand the power."
"Not only did they fail to acquire Wood Release, but they were consumed by the power of my grandfather's cells."
Shūichi nodded silently and began reviewing the research.
By the time he finished reading, night had fallen. Shizune had returned from Konoha Hospital and was preparing dinner.
Exhaling deeply, Shūichi smiled.
Hashirama's cells indeed possessed remarkable vitality. Once transplanted, they would infinitely replicate by consuming the host's life force. This process was uncontrollable, and the eventual result was the overwhelming resurgence of Wood Release, causing the host to sprout a tree.
The host would essentially become fertilizer!
Tsunade glanced at Shūichi. "So, what do you think? Any ideas?"
Shūichi nodded. "The essence of highly active cells is strong life force, much like how energetic children are always so lively."
"However, powerful life force doesn't only manifest in hyperactive cells—it can also have a more reserved form, like Asuka's."
"Just like people's personalities—some are energetic and bouncing around, while others, like my sister, are more reserved."
Tsunade nodded again.
Shūichi continued, "Another core aspect of strong life force is the strength of Yang Release."
"Yin Release techniques can create form from nothing, while Yang Release represents the energy of the body. Yang Release techniques can breathe life into that form."
"In the current shinobi world, the pinnacle of Yin Release is Susanoo, which perfectly embodies the concept of creating form from nothing."
"As for the pinnacle of Yang Release, it's Hashirama Senju. His Wood Release shows the essence of Yang Release—breathing life into form."
"Hashirama infused life into his Wood Release!"
Based on his current knowledge and available information, Shūichi realized this might be the reason Yamato's Wood Release could never compare to Hashirama's.
Yamato had inherited the kekkei genkai of Wood Release, but he didn't have the immense Yang Release power of Hashirama's cells. This might also be why Yamato survived the experiments—he didn't acquire the overwhelming Yang Release power that Hashirama possessed.
In other words, Wood Release's true strength wasn't due to the technique itself, but to the fact that Hashirama, with his immense Yang Release ability, wielded it.
Wood Release and Hashirama were a perfect match!
This gave the impression that Wood Release was an incredibly powerful kekkei genkai—or perhaps, even a kekkei tōta (advanced bloodline limit).
Shūichi's thoughts raced, aided by his unique perspective and key insights.
Yin and Yang are complementary forces. So why did Hiruzen Sarutobi's experiments with Hashirama's cells fail?
Because Hashirama was dead!
His cells, or rather the power they embodied, had lost the balance with Yin Release. As a result, the cells went out of control when transplanted into others.
Why couldn't anyone resist this imbalance?
Shūichi believed the problem was insufficient mental strength, or more specifically, a lack of Yin Release power.
This was why early successful transplants always involved the Sharingan.
The Sharingan represented strong Yin Release.
Especially at the Mangekyō Sharingan level.
That's why Obito Uchiha could perfectly control Hashirama's cells, while Danzo, who only had a Sharingan with three tomoe, couldn't.
In fact, Danzo's body was eventually overwhelmed, as the Yin Release power of three tomoe wasn't enough to balance Hashirama's cells.
Though it takes a long time to explain, with Shūichi Hoshita's rapid thought process, these ideas flashed through his mind in an instant.
He continued to speak to Tsunade, analyzing, "Lady Tsunade, I believe the reason why the Hashirama cell experiments failed is because those cells are dead."
Tsunade frowned, "What do you mean?"
Shūichi smiled, "They lack the mental energy that once controlled them."
"Lady Tsunade, humans are made up of both physical and spiritual components."
"Chakra is formed from the combination of physical strength and spiritual energy."
Tsunade seemed to catch on, "So you're saying that without a strong enough spiritual will to suppress my grandfather's power, it's impossible to succeed?"
Shūichi nodded, "Exactly."
"Alternatively, you could strip away the First Hokage's Yang Release power and only keep the Wood Release."
"But if you do that, the Wood Release would just be an ordinary kekkei genkai. Without the First Hokage's immense Yang Release, it wouldn't have the power to bring peace to an era of chaos."
"Of course, this is all just my theory."
"To prove it, we'd need to conduct experiments, but that's not something we need to focus on right now."
Shūichi refrained from mentioning the Sharingan, even though Tsunade could be trusted to keep such secrets.
Tsunade nodded thoughtfully and said, "The last time we tried, the losses were too great. The old man won't agree to further experiments."
"And besides, it really is dangerous."
Shūichi chuckled, "That's why we should focus on what we actually need."
"Cellular activation!"
"For the S-rank medical ninjutsu we need, I believe the breakthrough lies in enhancing cellular activity!"
"On one hand, we'd raise the activity of cells to the point where they can divide automatically when injured. On the other hand, Yang Release would provide the energy needed for that cell division."
"Of course, this is still just my theory."
"We'll need to conduct cell experiments to see if boosting cellular activity to a certain level works as I've described."
"If it turns out to be true, we'll have a clear direction for developing the technique, and it'll be much easier from there."
Based on the current information and resources, Tsunade couldn't find any flaws in Shūichi's hypothesis. With her decisive nature, she immediately made a decision: "Let's start with that approach tomorrow."
"For now…"
"Let's eat!"
"Shizune, bring out my sake!"
...
After having dinner with Tsunade and Shizune, Shūichi finally returned home.
Nonō was still at Konoha Hospital, so only Asuka was home.
The two chatted for a bit, and then Asuka left for the hospital with a bento, while Shūichi washed up and headed to his study to continue working on the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Thanks to the boost from the Ninjutsu Professor tag, his progress had become much smoother.
Before he knew it, both Nonō and Asuka had returned, and it was nearly 10 p.m.
Reluctantly, Shūichi ended his studies and went to sleep peacefully.
...
In the following days, Shūichi became even busier. Between the experiments with Tsunade, experiments with Orochimaru, the Flying Thunder God technique, genjutsu, and transformation jutsu… luckily, he had his shadow clones.
Even delegating the study of the Flying Thunder God to his clones didn't hinder his progress.
...
Time swiftly moved forward to December of Konoha Year 43.
Just stepping out from Orochimaru's lab, Shūichi paused, a smile blooming on his face as he silently rejoiced, "Finally unlocked!"
[Genjutsu Expert] Activate!
Genjutsu proficiency increased by 100%, mental willpower enhanced by 100%, and the ability to cast genjutsu without hand seals!
Say hello to even stronger mental fortitude!
"Let's see if Shisui's around, I can test my genjutsu resistance."
Shūichi secretly planned as he headed home, all the while contemplating the best use of this year's "Flash of Insight" ability.
The Flying Thunder God Technique was nearly complete.
Even if he didn't use Flying Thunder God, Shūichi was confident he could master it this year.
So, he was reluctant to use his "Flash of Insight" on the Flying Thunder God.
Should he use it on the medical ninjutsu he was developing with Tsunade?
That project was progressing well, but they hadn't yet completed the experiments on cellular activation.
After all, reaching the level of Hashirama's cells wasn't easy.
Or maybe he should use it on Lava Release, the kekkei genkai?
There was also his research on the Eight-Tails. He had made significant strides in all these areas.
Besides that, there were options like sealing techniques or genjutsu… but his preparation in those areas wasn't sufficient yet.
When Shūichi finally returned home, he hadn't made a decision.
A crow flew off toward Shisui's house and quickly returned.
As luck would have it, Shisui was home.
With that, a flock of crows took flight.
Soon, above Konoha, two flocks of crows merged and flew together toward the Forest of Death.
Near the Forest of Death, the two flocks of crows descended, each coalescing into Shūichi and Shisui.
"Shūichi, it seems your genjutsu skills have improved significantly," Shisui said with a smile.
"Just a little," Shūichi responded modestly, "But I'll need you to test just how much."
"In that case, I won't hold back," Shisui said, his smile fading though his demeanor remained warm.
Shūichi's eyes narrowed, "Bring it on!"
"Here I go…"
With that, Shisui's eyes transformed, the three-tomoe Sharingan spinning, red light flashing.
In the next instant, Shisui found himself bound to a tree while Shūichi's body dissolved into a swarm of crows, flying away.
However, Shūichi didn't reappear from the tree trunk; he completely vanished from Shisui's sight.
"As expected, this is so you, Shūichi," Shisui remarked, not overly surprised.
As Shūichi's former comrade, Shisui knew that Shūichi was highly skilled in both chakra nature and shape manipulation, enabling him to master techniques quickly and streamline hand seals. Once fully mastered, Shūichi could often perform jutsu without any seals at all.
This secret was known only to close comrades; anyone else who knew had likely already perished.
Demonic Illusion: Mirror Heaven and Earth Change!
Shisui activated his Sharingan genjutsu.
The technique binding him vanished instantly, but to his surprise, it didn't rebound onto Shūichi.
Moreover, Shisui realized he was still trapped within a genjutsu.
The red glow in Shisui's eyes intensified, and the surrounding space-time began to tear apart like a curtain under his power, revealing the true world once again.
Shūichi reappeared in Shisui's sight, floating in mid-air.
At the same time, numerous black feathers began to drift down from the sky.
Shisui's vision immediately began to blur.
Temple of Nirvana Technique!
The tomoe in Shisui's eyes spun, and he used Mirror Heaven and Earth Change once more.
The black feathers vanished, and Shūichi's form in the air seemed to be torn apart, transforming into a flock of crows that swooped down, enveloping Shisui.
"Shūichi's genjutsu skills haven't just increased; his resistance to genjutsu has grown as well…"
After using Mirror Heaven and Earth Change twice, Shisui was now certain of Shūichi's formidable resistance to genjutsu.
The red glow in Shisui's eyes flickered as the attacking crows dispersed one by one.
This too was a genjutsu, not Shūichi's crow clones.
Shisui turned around, and through his Sharingan vision, Shūichi's figure appeared, distorted.
Demonic Illusion: Shackling Stakes Technique!
Just after casting his Bringer of Darkness Technique, Shūichi was instantly immobilized!
"You didn't even use your Sharingan…"
Shūichi was caught without making eye contact with Shisui, and Shisui hadn't open his Mangekyō Sharingan either.
However, it wasn't a rule that the Uchiha clan always had to use their Sharingan to cast genjutsu.
Even when genjutsu was cast through the Sharingan, direct eye contact wasn't always required.
For instance, with Demonic Illusion: Mirror Heaven and Earth Change.
"Wait a minute…"
Suddenly, a thought struck Shūichi. Looking at Shisui, who had lost his vision and was enveloped in darkness, Shūichi smiled and asked, "Shisui, did you cast this genjutsu on me from the very beginning?"
Blind and shrouded in darkness, Shisui smiled, "You're sharp!"
"So, Shūichi, don't get complacent just because this is a sparring match."
With that, Shisui formed a seal and dispelled Shūichi's Bringer of Darkness Technique.
This technique was especially effective against the Uchiha clan, particularly those who heavily relied on their Sharingan.
But once freed from the Bringer of Darkness, Shisui immediately noticed that Shūichi had also broken free from the Shackling Stakes Technique.
This time, Shisui was genuinely astonished.
When cast with the Sharingan, this technique was incredibly powerful.
Even fellow Uchiha with three-tomoe Sharingan struggled to break free in such a short time.
"Incredible!"
Shisui couldn't help but be moved.
Shūichi, however, shook his head. "In a real battle, that time would have been more than enough to kill me several times over."
Shisui smiled, "But in the shinobi world, genjutsu of such potency is extremely rare."
He spoke with absolute confidence!
And Shūichi found it completely justified.
Even without the Sharingan, Shisui's genjutsu abilities were already remarkable.
Shūichi could tell just from the training notes Shisui had given him.
The fact that Shūichi had been able to avoid having Shisui's Mirror Heaven and Earth Change reflect genjutsu back onto him was not just because of his own resistance and talent in genjutsu, but also due to Shisui's training.
It had given him a deeper understanding of genjutsu.
In a way, Shisui had become his genjutsu teacher.
After an unassuming exchange of genjutsu, Shūichi had truly witnessed Shisui's immense skill in this area.
Had it not been a test, he would have been defeated instantly at the start.
Being able to use the Sharingan to silently perform the transcription seal is truly amazing!
And in this sparring match, Shisui had been mostly defensive, only launching one real attack toward the end.
The test was over.
The two sat cross-legged on the ground, discussing their insights into genjutsu.
In truth, it was mostly Shūichi asking questions, with Shisui providing answers.
With his recently enhanced talent, Shūichi quickly grasped the concepts and mastered them almost instantly.
---
Elsewhere, back home.
Shūichi used a summoning technique to call forth the white tiger from the Forest of Death.
The once small and adorable white tiger had grown significantly, now possessing the aura of a true king of the forest.
However, in front of Shūichi, it was still just a big cat.
After playing with it for a while, Shūichi fed the white tiger a special medicine, then infused it with chakra.
But unlike before, where he had used chakra without any elemental nature, this time he infused it with Wind Release chakra.
This was something Shūichi had started doing back in April of this year.
Around that time, the white tiger had naturally developed its own chakra, becoming a true ninja beast.
As the saying goes, "Clouds follow the dragon, wind follows the tiger." Shūichi believed that Wind Release would be a perfect match for Shiro.
After sending the tiger back to the Forest of Death, Shūichi returned to his study.
There, his shadow clone was still working on mastering the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Shūichi didn't bother with that, instead pulling out a different scroll.
It was the incomplete technique related to natural energy from the Totsuka Blade.
Before he knew it, the sky had darkened, and Shūichi Hoshita's crow clones dispelled, their memories flowing back to him.
In his study, Shūichi shifted his gaze away from the technique formula on the scroll.
"What an incredible binding technique... and the Transcription Seal too."
He recalled his genjutsu duel with Shisui Uchiha.
Without a doubt, one's mental strength and willpower play a crucial role in resisting genjutsu—what could be described as genjutsu resistance.
This conclusion comes from understanding the principles behind genjutsu.
Let's set aside techniques like Tsukuyomi, Infinite Tsukuyomi, Izanagi, and Izanami for now.
Regular genjutsu works by disrupting the target's chakra flow to interfere with their five senses.
Genjutsu cast without the Sharingan can be broken by correcting the disrupted chakra flow.
Moreover, it's important to note that when someone's chakra is in an intense, raging state, it becomes extremely difficult for genjutsu to take hold.
For example, back in the Hidden Hot Water Village, when facing A in his Lightning Release Chakra Mode, Chihiro's genjutsu was practically useless.
The reason was that in this state, A's chakra system was so powerful and violent that Chihiro's genjutsu couldn't affect it.
Beyond the future Fourth Raikage A's Lightning Release Chakra Mode, those with immense mental strength, willpower, or extraordinary chakra control also have strong genjutsu resistance.
These individuals possess such fine control over their own chakra that regular genjutsu has difficulty disrupting it—or if disrupted, they can instantly correct it without even needing to form hand seals.
Shūichi, with his talents in ninjutsu and genjutsu, and his chakra control abilities, is among the very best in the shinobi world.
His mental strength and willpower are even more impressive.
Without such traits, he wouldn't have been able to master the Fire Release Chakra Mode.
Thus, he can easily dispel normal genjutsu, and often prevent his chakra flow from being disrupted in the first place.
But Sharingan-based genjutsu is quite different from regular genjutsu.
Though it similarly disrupts chakra flow, the Sharingan uses eye contact to cast its illusions.
Since the eyes are often referred to as the window to the soul, the Sharingan's genjutsu can directly invade the mind through the eyes, attacking from within.
This makes it subtle and difficult to detect—even Jinchūriki can fall prey to it, though they can break free relatively quickly.
For example, when the Fourth Raikage A was caught in Uchiha Madara's genjutsu, it bypassed his powerful and violent chakra system through his eyes.
In Shūichi's understanding, regular ninjutsu attacks a shinobi's chakra system from the outside, while the Sharingan attacks from within.
The difference in effectiveness is clear.
"And, the Sharingan can directly target a person's mind."
Today, Shūichi had truly experienced the power of the Sharingan's genjutsu.
Shisui's Shackling Stakes Technique, which he had set as a trap using the Transcription Seal, directly targeted the mind of Shūichi's crow clone.
It pinned the clone's mental energy, rendering it unable to control its body.
This was much more direct and effective than merely disrupting chakra flow to achieve control.
"Orochimaru must've been one-shotted by Itachi's technique in a similar way."
As he pondered, Shūichi also thought of Tsukuyomi.
That Mangekyō Sharingan technique targets the mind as well, but on an even more terrifying level.
The fact that Kakashi endured the mental torture without breaking down showed that his willpower was incredibly strong.
"That brat Itachi was ruthless, even to his former superior..."
Shūichi couldn't help but gripe, but he also wondered—if Tsukuyomi were used on him right now…
After carefully evaluating, Shūichi realized that, in his current state, he wouldn't be able to break free from Tsukuyomi as he had done with Shisui's Shackling Stakes Technique.
The two techniques were simply not on the same level.
"Shackling Stakes only pinned my mind once, momentarily."
Shūichi reflected, "But Tsukuyomi creates an entire mental space, where Uchiha Itachi has absolute control as the master, while Kakashi had only his mental strength to resist, without being able to use chakra."
"This is clearly an asymmetric fight, so even with my mental strength and willpower, it would be impossible to shatter the mental space of Tsukuyomi."
He couldn't help but think—how could he counter it?
After all, it's unrealistic to assume he could avoid eye contact with Sharingan users forever.
And there were Uchiha like Shisui, whose Mangekyō Sharingan genjutsu abilities had already surpassed the need for eye contact.
Could the only solution really be to continuously enhance his mental strength and willpower?
Shūichi wasn't convinced.
If that were the case, techniques like Tsukuyomi and Kotoamatsukami would be unbeatable.
Not to mention Infinite Tsukuyomi.
"Infinite Tsukuyomi..."
As Shūichi was lost in thought, he heard some noise outside.
It was Nonō Yakushi and Asuka returning.
Shūichi gathered his thoughts, stood up, and walked out of his study.
...
Time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, half a month had gone by.
One afternoon, while Shūichi was climbing a cliff with weights strapped to him, he suddenly heard Might Guy shouting.
Looking down, Shūichi saw Guy at the base of the cliff, flailing his arms wildly, looking extremely excited.
With one last push, Shūichi reached the top of the cliff. He then swiftly descended by running along the cliff face, his body parallel to the ground.
Upon reaching the bottom, he looked at the elated Guy and asked, "Guy! What's got you so excited?"
Guy, still waving his arms in excitement, exclaimed, "A taijutsu master!"
"Shūichi, we have a taijutsu master here in Konoha!"
Shūichi was confused.
A taijutsu master?
Could there be a taijutsu master in Konoha even more skilled than Guy's father or the future Might Guy himself?
Shūichi had no recollection of such a figure.
Guy, still animated, continued, "Shūichi, this person is amazing!"
"How about we go and ask him for guidance together?"
Curious and intrigued, Shūichi and Might Guy left their training ground and headed toward the place Guy mentioned. From a distance, they spotted two people.
One was a middle-aged man, short and stocky, with a mustache and wearing sunglasses. The other was a sturdy-looking young man, and the two of them were sparring.
At a glance, it was clear that the man with sunglasses had incredible skill in taijutsu.
Shūichi was quietly amazed—he had never heard of such a person in Konoha before. Could this man be another unknown like Guy's mentor?
As Shūichi and Guy approached, the two sparring men noticed them and immediately stopped.
"Apologies for interrupting, sir!" Shūichi quickly bowed in respect, and Guy followed suit.
The man with sunglasses glanced at them and said, "This is a public place; there's no need to apologize."
"However, since you're here now, we'll move somewhere else."
With that, he turned to leave, gesturing for the young man with him to follow.
Guy quickly bowed again and apologized, "I'm really sorry, sir! I only came over because I saw your incredible taijutsu and wanted to learn from you."
Shūichi added, "Guy is also a taijutsu practitioner, and he holds great respect for your skills, sir."
"Of course, I too have a deep interest in taijutsu, which is why we intruded today. May I ask your name, sir? I would like to formally apologize in the future."
The man with sunglasses shook his head. "No need to apologize. As for my name... just call me Chen."
"Now, we need to get back to our training."
Before they could say anything else, Shūichi pulled Guy back. "Master Chen, we won't disturb you any further!"
With that, Shūichi and Guy left.
Guy, looking puzzled, asked, "Shūichi, aren't we going to ask that master for guidance?"
Shūichi shook his head. "Master Chen already has a student, and it's clear he doesn't wish to take on any more. It's best we don't bother him."
Guy looked disappointed and regretful. "Shūichi, I saw one of his moves earlier—it was definitely on the level of a secret technique!"
Shūichi patted Guy on the shoulder and smiled. "Guy, you have to believe in yourself. You can create your own secret techniques too!"
"Besides, I noticed that Master Chen wasn't wearing a Konoha forehead protector. He might not even be part of our village."
"But Guy, what exactly did you see in that taijutsu technique?"
Guy scratched his head, embarrassed. "I... I only saw a dragon!"
A dragon?
Shūichi's eyes narrowed as a faint memory surfaced.
The Leaf Dragon God!
Could it be that the technique was a taijutsu secret art?
Shūichi pondered, "So, Guy, that dragon was formed purely by physical strength?"
Guy nodded firmly. "Yeah, it definitely wasn't created by chakra."
After hearing this, Shūichi speculated, "Then it must have been created by manipulating the air with pure physical force."
"To control the air outside your body with just your own power—that's definitely a secret technique-level ability!"
As he spoke, Shūichi glanced back at the spot where Master Chen and his student were.
What an extraordinary person.
However, he was slightly disappointed that his system didn't trigger the Taijutsu Master tag.
...
Back at the cliff, Shūichi and Might Guy resumed their respective training.
This afternoon, it was just the two of them.
With everyone graduating and more missions piling up, it became increasingly difficult to gather for group training with Kakashi and the others.
But personal training is inherently a solitary path.
The real competition isn't with others, but with oneself.
As Shūichi's physical strength continued to improve, his training constantly pushed beyond previous limits.
These days, whenever he wasn't out on missions, he would regularly train with weights, especially during physical exercises.
Training without weights would simply take too long to unlock his potential.
As the sun set, Shūichi, after parting ways with Guy, began to wonder if he should incorporate the Lightning Release Chakra Mode into his training to tap into his body's potential through the power of lightning.
"But the physique of the Raikage isn't exactly stylish..." Shūichi thought to himself with mild disdain.
...
When he got home, he fed his pet crows, then his white tiger, and afterward, soaked in a bath while recalling all of his shadow clones.
As soon as he absorbed the memories of the clone practicing the Transformation Jutsu, his heart leapt with joy.
Finally, the conditions were met.
The Tag System had activated.
Shūichi immediately activated the tag, and it became effective at once.
In an instant, he experienced a flood of understanding, as if a veil had been lifted from his mind.
With a mere thought, Shūichi transformed into a grass carp and splashed into the bath, swimming around.
Due to his experience handling fish frequently, Shūichi had long since been able to transform into a fish and swim in water.
But this time, it was entirely different.
Now, he possessed the ability to breathe underwater like a real fish.
This was something he had never been able to do before.
"Amazing!"
After transforming back into a human, Shūichi couldn't help but exclaim in admiration.
Immediately, another thought crossed his mind: "What would happen if I transformed into a tailed beast?"
"Would I gain vast amounts of chakra? Probably not..."
Without hesitation, Shūichi got out of the bath, dressed, informed Asuka that he was stepping out, and hurried out the door.
Before long, he arrived at a secluded spot in Konoha. After using a listening technique to ensure no one was around, he activated the Transformation Jutsu.
With a loud puff, a massive figure appeared on the grass.
The Four-Tails!
"Just as I thought..."
Shūichi didn't feel any change in his chakra reserves.
However, he did feel a new power surging within him.
Lava Release!
"Excellent!"
Grinning, Shūichi reverted back to his human form, causing the Lava Release ability to disappear.
But there wasn't an ounce of disappointment.
Because by transforming into the Four-Tails, he found it much easier to sense and control the Lava Release than when he had to rely on the Four-Tails' chakra.
Before, he had to draw out the Lava Release power from the Four-Tails' chakra.
Now, by becoming the Four-Tails himself, he could directly harness the Lava Release power, making learning and mastering it infinitely easier.
"This is an unexpected surprise!" Shūichi wanted to burst into laughter.
The Transformation Master tag was far more powerful than any other master tag he had unlocked, and it was well worth the four or five years it took to achieve.
Calming himself down, Shūichi transformed into the Four-Tails once more.
Inside his belly, the Four-Tails' chakra formed a small version of the tailed beast itself, its eyes wide with shock.
"This brat..."
"What's going on?"
"How is this possible?"
The Four-Tails couldn't comprehend how this kid could transform into it, possessing the same Lava Release and chakra nature as itself.
How was this even possible?
"Hey, brat, how are you doing this?"
The Four-Tails couldn't help but shout.
But Shūichi ignored it, fully focused on the power of Lava Release.
Now, the Four-Tails sealed within him was nothing more than a glorified battery.
After about half an hour, Shūichi finished his training, ready to head home for dinner. But he paused, his mind racing.
"Tailed beasts can restore their strength by absorbing natural energy. This is an innate talent for them..."
Shūichi's heart began pounding with excitement.
He had to try!
In his Four-Tails form, Shūichi clasped his hands together, focusing to the extreme, and let instinct guide him.
Sure enough, he soon sensed a flow of energy.
His perception expanded outward, and the amount of energy he felt grew immense, as if he were submerged in an infinite ocean.
This energy flowed into his body, absorbed and converted into physical stamina.
His strength quickly recovered, and by controlling this energy, it was transformed into the unique chakra of the Four-Tails!
"The speed of this recovery is unbelievable..."
"I wonder, could I store the Four-Tails' chakra?"
With a thought, Shūichi directed the refined chakra into the Eight Trigrams Seal in his belly.
It worked!
Gurgle, gurgle!
The Yin Seal on his abdomen rapidly filled up.
The Four-Tails could only stare in stunned disbelief as chakra identical to its own, yet beyond its control, poured into Shūichi's seal. Its mind was utterly blown.
Shūichi, satisfied with the experiment, stopped and returned home, though his thoughts were still racing.
"By transforming into a tailed beast, I can harness its power and absorb natural energy."
"In this state, it's much easier to master the bloodline limits of each tailed beast and eventually learn how to sense natural energy."
"However, absorbing natural energy now could still be risky... I need to research and practice more."
Shūichi quietly pondered, "Sage Mode is different from a tailed beast's ability. The tailed beasts convert natural energy into stamina, which is then turned into chakra, much like how the God Tree absorbs natural energy to produce chakra fruits."
"But Sage Mode is a balance of natural energy, stamina, and spiritual energy..."
Suddenly, Shūichi thought of the formula inscribed on the Tostuka sword.
"Looks like this year's 'Flash of Insight' has found its target..."
...
When Shūichi returned home, Nonō had already come back from the Konoha Hospital, and Asuka had finished preparing dinner.
As the family sat down to eat, Nonō remembered Shūichi mentioning his idea to establish a research base. She said, "Shūichi, why don't we propose building the base under the name of Konoha Hospital?"
Shūichi chuckled, "That could work. I doubt Lord Third Hokage would refuse."
"But I have an even better plan."
Asuka, intrigued, asked, "What's the plan?"
"It's a secret!" Shūichi replied mysteriously. "You'll find out soon enough."
If Konoha funded the research base alone, it wouldn't be ideal.
They needed a secondary investor, and the Daimyō of the Land of Fire would be a perfect candidate.
Researching the power of the tailed beasts and developing tailed beast weapons—how could the Daimyō resist?
Would Hiruzen Sarutobi object?
Why would he, if the Daimyō was willing to fund a research base for Konoha?
...
After dinner, Shūichi left a shadow clone to continue practicing the Flying Thunder God Technique while he went out to further explore the power of Lava Release.
When he finished his training around 9 PM, he couldn't help but glance in the direction of his teacher Minato Namikaze's home.
He had to admit, he was beginning to eye the Nine-Tails.
"Each tailed beast has unique powers, and the more tails, the closer they are to the Ten-Tails' strength."
As he walked, Shūichi thought to himself, "The Nine-Tails is closest to the Ten-Tails and provides the most comprehensive boost to a shinobi."
"The Four-Tails' chakra enhances Lava Release, Earth Release, and Fire Release, and it has some healing capabilities, but it's nowhere near as powerful as the Nine-Tails."
"Naruto's Yang Nine-Tails chakra can even boost Wood Release... If my theory is correct, the Nine-Tails' power could act as a substitute for Hashirama's Yang Release, giving ordinary Wood Release the same strength as Hashirama's."
"In other words, the Yang Nine-Tails chakra could infuse Wood Release with life."
"The One-Tail's Magnet Release and sealing abilities, the Two-Tails' Fire Release, the Three-Tails' Water Release..."
"It looks like I'll need to collect chakra from all the tailed beasts. By transforming into them, I can better understand their powers!"
"Maybe even..."
Shūichi suddenly had a wild idea.
What if he created nine miniature tailed beasts inside himself?
And then somehow transformed into the God Tree... Could that lead to an understanding of the root power of the God Tree or even the Ten-Tails?
The allure of the God Tree and the Ten Tails was incredibly strong.
Even after returning home, Shūichi continued to ponder the feasibility of it.
Since he wasn't aiming to become the Jinchūriki of the Ten Tails, the risks didn't seem too high for now.
Ōtsutsuki Kaguya wouldn't be able to possess him either.
The only real challenge was transforming into the God Tree or the Ten Tails.
With his [Transformation Master] tag, Shūichi had acquired the instincts and nature of the creatures he transformed into, but the prerequisite was being sufficiently familiar with them—this was essential to performing the Transformation Technique properly.
Lying in bed, Shūichi gradually gathered his thoughts, "The God Tree is still a distant goal, but I need to start collecting the chakra of the nine Tailed Beasts."
"Especially the power of the Nine-Tails..."
...
The next day, Shūichi personally went to the Tenka Store to meet Tenka.
He wasn't there to see a beauty, but to place an order.
He was confident in his progress with the Flying Thunder God Technique and was close to mastering it. Naturally, he needed to prepare a batch of custom-made kunai, specifically designed to carry the Flying Thunder God mark.
Besides the kunai, there was also special paper to carry the Flying Thunder God seal, similar to the material used for explosive tags and scrolls.
Hearing Shūichi's request, Tenka was startled, "A thousand kunai and special paper? Shūichi, is the Shinobi World about to break out in war?"
Shūichi smiled and shook his head, "No, it's not for war. I need them for training a ninjutsu."
Tenka breathed a sigh of relief and then smiled, nodding, "No problem."
"When do you need them? I'll have them rushed!"
Shūichi thought for a moment, "Three days."
"I'll come back in three days to pick them up."
Tenka replied, "Got it. We already have the special paper in stock, so I'll give you that first."
After receiving the paper, Shūichi chatted with Tenka for a while longer before paying and leaving.
Tenka, not one to be overly formal, accepted the payment without hesitation.
Gifts were gifts, but business was business!
...
December 28, Year 43 of the Konoha Calendar.
Inside his study.
Shūichi looked at the lotus seal left on his desk, exhaled deeply, and a broad smile spread across his face.
It was finally done!
Before turning 11, he had completed the training for the Flying Thunder God Technique and mastered its marking formula.
From the moment he started learning, it had taken him less than half a year.
Standing up, Shūichi stepped out of his study and into the courtyard. He effortlessly sensed the Flying Thunder God mark he had left behind, and with just a thought, he instantly appeared, squatting on his desk.
"Cool!"
Shūichi was in an even better mood now.
Unless it was some kind of plot armor or world-destroying event, he could now escape from almost anything.
Of course, the key was to place his marks all over the world!
Jumping off the desk, Shūichi grabbed his Totsuka Blade and the specially crafted kunai from Tenka, wrapping their handles with the special paper. Then, he applied the Flying Thunder God Technique, leaving his unique lotus mark on them.
"I should leave a mark on the Director, Asuka, and Shizune as well."
As Shūichi thought this, his hands kept moving. He stored the Flying Thunder God scroll, picked up another scroll, and left the house.
At his teacher Minato Namikaze's home.
Uzumaki Kushina, who opened the door, was momentarily surprised to see him. "Shūichi, isn't your shadow clone here?"
Shūichi waved the scroll in his hand, "I'm here to return something."
Seeing the scroll, Kushina immediately understood, but she was still shocked. "Shūichi, don't tell me... you've already completed the Flying Thunder God Technique?"
Shūichi smiled and nodded, "I've mastered the Flying Thunder God formula. I've got the basics down."
"This..."
"This is unbelievable!"
Although Kushina had always thought Shūichi was exceptionally talented and might even master the Flying Thunder God faster than Minato, she hadn't expected it to happen this quickly.
Not lingering long at his teacher's house, Shūichi then made his way to the Hokage Tower, where Sarutobi Shinnosuke announced his arrival, and he met with the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Smoking his pipe and reading the completed plan in front of him, Hiruzen looked up and asked, "So, Danzō has already started the pseudo-Jinchūriki project?"
Shūichi nodded, "Although Danzō-sama doesn't trust me, it's clear from the situation in the lab."
"This might also be Orochimaru-sama's way of informing me, indirectly."
Hiruzen nodded, recalling Shūichi's earlier manipulations. He couldn't help but ask, "Do you think the Daimyō will approve this plan?"
Shūichi replied seriously, "As long as the Daimyō sees results, he won't refuse."
"And I am one of those results."
"In the future, once we have more candidates, we can send them to the Daimyō as undercover agents for a period of time."
Surrounded by smoke, Hiruzen's face twitched slightly, but he nodded, "Alright, we'll proceed with your plan."
The plan Shūichi had submitted was thorough, and there was no reason to reject something that only benefited Konoha.
"Understood. I will do my best."
After a pause, Shūichi added, "Hokage-sama, aside from this matter, I would also like to request permission to freely enter and leave the village."
"Because I've recently completed my training in the Flying Thunder God Technique."
What?
Hiruzen almost dropped his pipe.
Quickly steadying himself, Hiruzen regained his composure and asked, "If I recall, you haven't been training in this technique for long, have you?"
Shūichi quickly replied, "Thanks to Minato-sensei's guidance, it went quite smoothly."
For a moment, Hiruzen didn't know what to say.
It should have been a moment of great joy, but for some reason, there was a hint of frustration.
Back then, Minato had taken two years to master the technique, which Hiruzen already found remarkable.
And now Shūichi... six months...
After a few deep puffs, Hiruzen nodded, "Very well, go find Shinnosuke for the formalities."
"But be cautious when outside the village. Remember, Suna, Iwa, and Kumo have all set their sights on you."
Shūichi gratefully replied, "Understood. Thank you, Third Hokage-sama, I will be careful!"
...
After leaving the Hokage office and receiving his travel permit from Shinnosuke, Shūichi departed the Hokage Tower under Shinnosuke's astonished gaze and picked up his custom kunai from the Tenka Store.
Upon returning home, Shūichi began marking his kunai with the Flying Thunder God seal.
However, this process consumed a considerable amount of chakra, and even with the ability to transform into the Four-Tails to quickly recover through natural energy, it wouldn't be completed in just a day or two.
For now, preparing about 50 kunai seemed sufficient to him.
The act of continuously marking the kunai was also a process of further mastering the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Of course, this alone wasn't enough to meet the requirements for the [Space-Time Envoy] tag.
So, that tag couldn't be activated yet.
But Shūichi no longer felt so anxious.
With the New Year approaching, he didn't rush to leave the village.
Besides, he still had to use the "Flash of Insight."
December 31, Year 43 of Konoha.
In the Study.
Shūichi got ready, activating the Yin Seal on his forehead, and initiated the Hundred Healing Jutsu, enveloping his head with chakra while fully focusing his mind.
He pushed his cognitive speed to the max!
Not far away, Asuka felt a bit nervous, prepared to intervene at any moment, despite Shūichi assuring her that everything would be fine.
"Flash of Insight, activate!"
Shūichi lowered his gaze and began brainstorming.
Ten minutes might seem short, but under Shūichi's accelerated thought process, it stretched out into something much longer.
As time trickled by, five minutes later, beads of sweat began to form on Shūichi's forehead.
After eight minutes, he suddenly opened his eyes wide, picked up a brush, and rapidly wrote on the blank scroll he had prepared earlier.
Tadpole-like symbols quickly materialized, forming a jutsu formula.
When the ten minutes were up and the effect of "Flash of Insight" faded, Shūichi stopped writing just in time.
Asuka rushed forward, anxiously asking, "Shūichi, how did it go?"
Shūichi wiped the sweat from his brow, retracted the Hundred Healing Jutsu and the Yin Seal, and smiled, "No problems at all."
Asuka sighed in relief and then looked at the intricate jutsu formula on the scroll, asking, "Shūichi, is this… a sealing jutsu?"
Shūichi shook his head and replied with a grin, "No, it's a curse mark formula!"
"A curse mark?"
Asuka scrutinized it closely, but the complex symbols made her dizzy, and she quickly gave up, laughing, "Shūichi, this curse mark must be very powerful, right?"
Shūichi took a moment to explain the concept of natural energy before continuing, "This curse mark allows one to draw natural energy from the environment to amplify the power of Fire Release."
"Roughly… several times, even dozens of times, hmm?"
"Dozens of times?" Asuka was astonished.
"Unfortunately, it only amplifies Fire Release and can't store natural energy like the Totsuka Blade."
Shūichi sighed inwardly, feeling a hint of regret.
However, completing a full curse mark from a partially incomplete formula was still quite an achievement.
The natural energy within the Totsuka Blade could only be used for sword techniques.
But this new curse mark could amplify all his Fire Release jutsu, including Fire Release Chakra Modes.
Once he mastered Lava Release, it should also be amplifiable.
Moreover, unlike Orochimaru's Cursed Seal Technique, this one resembled the chakra of the Tailed Beasts.
"Asuka, what do you think we should call this curse mark?"
Looking at his masterpiece, Shūichi eagerly asked.
Asuka thought for a moment and then smiled, "How about 'Bijuu Sealing Mark'?"
"With such a powerful amplification, Shūichi, your Fire Release is already incredibly strong. No one should be able to compare, right?"
"Bijuu Sealing Mark…"
Shūichi knew exactly what that name represented.
It represented the Fire God!
(T/N: I don't know how, but maybe does in Chinese name so whatever, just stop your brain and read!)
In different parts of the Shinobi World, this Fire God had various names.
Such as the God of Fire, Kagutsuchi!
Yes, just like Uchiha Sasuke's Mangekyō Sharingan technique, Blaze Release: Kagutsuchi!
Thinking about it, Shūichi smiled and said, "Then it's settled!"
"Bijuu Sealing Mark!"
Saying this, he placed his hand on the formula inscribed on the scroll.
In the next moment, a blue light illuminated, and the symbols on the scroll came to life, rapidly crawling up Shūichi's right hand, then along his arm until they converged at his brow, forming a blue flame mark shaped like two tomoe.
Asuka couldn't help but exclaim in awe, "So cool!"
...
During dinner that night, Shūichi explained to Nono and Asuka that he would be leaving the village for a while to further train the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Nono nodded with a smile, "Shūichi, be sure to stay safe, and…"
She then looked at the eager Asuka and said, "Take Asuka with you!"
Asuka immediately nodded enthusiastically, looking at Shūichi with longing.
Shūichi instantly understood that Nono had seen through his intention to leave the village for more than just training the Flying Thunder God Technique, and he nodded, "Alright!"
Asuka immediately shouted in excitement, "Yay!"
A night passed, and Year 44 of Konoha arrived.
This New Year was the most comfortable one for Shūichi.
Because the harvest before the New Year had been immense.
Starting on the fourth day of the New Year, Shūichi continued to visit Minato, Tsunade, and others to pay his respects and inform them of his plans to leave the village.
He set the date for January 10, Year 44 of Konoha.
In the blink of an eye, the day of departure arrived.
As usual, he did his morning training. After breakfast, Shūichi was fully armed and set off with Asuka under Nono's watchful eyes.
However, just as they stepped outside, they saw Minato appear before them.
"Looks like I caught you just in time!"
Minato smiled and handed Shūichi a long sword, saying, "While the Anbu's ninjatō is good, it's still not as great as a chakra blade."
"This Kusanagi Sword is perfect for you!"
The Kusanagi Sword was something Shūichi had received from the Daimyō of the Land of Fire during his first visit; it was said to possess the power to manipulate the earth, although Minato hadn't felt that power when he tried it.
Even so, it was still a superior quality sword compared to an ordinary chakra blade.
This time, Shūichi didn't refuse like he had last time. He accepted it with gratitude, bowing slightly, "Thank you, Sensei. I'll accept it without hesitation!"
Minato looked at Shūichi with gentle eyes, reminding him, "Stay safe!"
Shūichi nodded earnestly, "Don't worry, Sensei. I will!"
Minato nodded, then smiled, "Alright, I'll take my leave. Kakashi and the others are still waiting for me!"
With that, he vanished.
Shūichi glanced at the sword hilt, wrapped with special paper, and couldn't help but smile: Minato-sensei is still as thoughtful as ever!
Grasping the sword hilt, the lotus patterns subtly appeared on its surface.
"Let's go!"
Glancing back at Nono, Shūichi called out softly, then leaped into the air.
Asuka turned to wave goodbye to Nono, who was watching them, before she jumped to follow him.
...
After successfully leaving Konoha Village, Shūichi found a nearby spot to leave a Flying Thunder God kunai, embedding it in a stone, with only the handle visible.
At this distance, he could easily sense the Flying Thunder God markers he had placed within Konoha. There was one in his study, one on Yakushi Nonō, and one on Shizune.
After leaving the kunai, Shūichi continued his journey with Asuka, heading towards the Land of Wind.
Since they weren't in a rush, they reached the border between the Land of Fire and the Land of Rivers on the second day.
Along the way, Shūichi placed five more Flying Thunder God kunai throughout the Land of Fire.
After resting overnight at the border, the two crossed into the Land of Rivers the next day and entered the Land of Wind by that evening.
Throughout their journey, a flock of crows followed them from a distance.
Having experience from his previous visit to the Land of Wind and the ability to transform into a bird, Shūichi had no trouble navigating, and they didn't get lost.
However, Shūichi's goal wasn't Sunagakure, and he didn't approach the village recklessly.
Instead, he left Flying Thunder God markers or kunai around the surrounding oases and towns near Sunagakure.
Once the preparations were complete, Shūichi and Asuka withdrew from the Land of Wind, disguised themselves as traveling merchants, and settled in a mid-sized town in the Land of Rivers, where they opened a small general store, giving the appearance of having tired from their travels and choosing to settle down.
Asuka managed the store while Shūichi focused on training, using shadow clones and crows to monitor the areas around Sunagakure.
He wasn't sure if Sasori of the Red Sand would attempt to assassinate the Third Kazekage again.
But from the intelligence he had gathered earlier, the Third Kazekage often left the village to explore within the Land of Wind, possibly searching for iron mines, having had success with such endeavors in the Land of Rivers.
Time passed as Shūichi continued his training and surveillance.
Before long, Shūichi's 11th birthday arrived.
That afternoon, Asuka trimmed his hair and remarked with a smile, "Shūichi, without realizing it, you've grown taller than Nonō!"
Shūichi sighed, "Well, I've grown a year older, so of course, I've grown taller!"
Indeed, over the past year, he had grown much faster than before.
Yakushi Nonō was only about 155 centimeters tall, and Shūichi was now 160 centimeters, just a few centimeters shorter than Asuka.
Growing taller was a good thing, though the only downside was that he could no longer act spoiled around Nonō like before.
Yes, it was time to change their dynamic!
Shūichi decided to fully embrace his mature persona and become the solid pillar of the household.
...
That evening, though it was just the two of them, Asuka prepared a grand birthday feast for him.
There was longevity noodles, a birthday cake, and all of Shūichi's favorite dishes, filling the table.
Halfway through the meal, Shūichi suddenly paused, then smiled, "It seems today is my lucky day!"
Asuka blinked, then quickly caught on, "Something happening in the Land of Wind?"
Shūichi nodded and stood up, "The Kazekage is on the move!"
Though Asuka was a bit disappointed they couldn't finish the meal, she smiled and said, "We've already had the longevity noodles and birthday cake, so your birthday celebration is complete. Let's go, time to move!"
She quickly began packing their things.
Five minutes later, they were fully equipped and vanished from the room in a flash.
...
In the Land of Wind, within an abandoned outpost near Sunagakure.
Amidst the ruined walls, Shūichi and Asuka suddenly appeared.
Shūichi immediately sent out a shadow clone, transforming it into a hawk that flew off into the night sky.
About ten minutes later, Shūichi received the clone's memories and raised an eyebrow.
Asuka quickly asked, "Shūichi, what's the situation?"
"Are there many people with the Kazekage?"
Shūichi shook his head, "The Kazekage is alone."
Earlier, Shūichi's clone had detected the Kazekage leaving Sunagakure with his guard and stopping at a nearby oasis, but now, the Kazekage was moving alone away from the town.
Asuka was shocked, "What... how could this be?"
"Shūichi, could this be a trap?"
Shūichi understood her concern and smiled, "A trap won't work on us."
"Come on, let's see what the Kazekage is up to."
With that, they moved out, Asuka quickly following behind.
The two sped through the desert, but Shūichi maintained a cautious distance, keeping the Kazekage in sight.
About half an hour later, using aerial reconnaissance, Shūichi saw the Third Kazekage entering an abandoned town.
The most crucial detail—there was another humanoid heat signature in the ruins.
"Sasori of the Red Sand?"
Shūichi speculated.
He hadn't met Sasori before and didn't have any of his chakra information, so he couldn't identify him through his listening technique, nor could he discern his appearance through thermal vision.
But regardless of who the Kazekage was meeting, this was a perfect opportunity to eliminate him!
Whether they could kill him or not was uncertain.
But they had to try!
Shūichi removed his hooded cloak and handed it to Asuka, saying, "Asuka, you'll stay back and provide cover for me."
"If the Kazekage's guards show up or if any other shinobi approach, fire a signal flare to warn me!"
Asuka nodded but then quickly added, "There are two people with the Kazekage, and anyone important enough to meet the Kazekage won't be easy to handle."
"How about leaving a shadow clone for guard duty while I go in and assist you?"
Shūichi shook his head, "I won't reveal my true identity for now, so you shouldn't approach the battlefield either."
He thought for a moment and added, "Once I activate my Fire Release Chakra Mode, then you can join in."
Asuka nodded firmly, "Understood!"
With the plan set, Shūichi leaped into the air, transforming into an eagle and soaring out of Asuka's sight.
In an abandoned town, half-buried by wind and sand, Shūichi had already transformed into a rattlesnake, silently lurking in the shadows.
A rattlesnake in the desert—completely inconspicuous.
At this moment, the Third Kazekage was just meeting with the other person Shūichi had detected.
"Kazekage-sama, you're quite slow, making me wait this long... You know, I hate waiting the most," said a voice with mild annoyance.
The Third Kazekage remained indifferent to Sasori's words, responding calmly, "What's so urgent about this meeting?"
"You should be preparing to take action against that person," Sasori replied, his voice tinged with amusement from under his black cloak. "As expected of a heartless leader…"
"Even puppets need rest and replacement of worn-out parts. You should know that I've just helped you eliminate a few small nations that proposed cutting down the village's budget."
The Third Kazekage remained emotionless. "That was the price you paid for me pardoning your crime of attempting to assassinate the Kazekage!"
"Enough with the small talk," he continued, "What's the real reason you've called me here today?"
With a soft laugh, Sasori replied, "I want to show you my masterpiece!"
"Trust me, it'll be invaluable for building a stronger puppet army in Sunagakure."
The Kazekage scoffed, already knowing what Sasori was referring to. "Your human puppets?"
"That's forbidden in the ninja world. You're only tolerated because you're a rogue ninja!"
Sunagakure developing human puppets would inevitably provoke attacks from the other major villages, and even the smaller ninja villages would join in.
Despite the superiority of human puppets, which could retain the chakra nature and abilities of the deceased, no individual threat could outweigh the danger of provoking an entire village, especially one of the Five Great Nations.
Sasori took out a scroll, still smiling. "Isn't developing Jinchūriki cruel enough? Isn't waging war cruel enough? Using enemy bodies to create puppets—now that's resourceful!"
"Kazekage, you're too soft!"
As his words trailed off, Sasori unsealed the scroll, and a puppet emerged.
The Third Kazekage looked on, unsurprised. "You turned Konoha's White Fang into a puppet? If Konoha finds out, you're as good as dead!"
Sasori remained unfazed. "Are they really going to invade the Land of Wind?"
"Will the Third Hokage personally come for me?"
He didn't care about the others. After all, he had attempted to assassinate the Kazekage three times and still escaped, not solely because the Kazekage had held back.
The Kazekage underestimated him!
As these thoughts crossed his mind, Sasori's eyes sharpened beneath his hood, and his fingers twitched.
Clang!
The White Fang puppet charged forward swiftly, a sharp blade shooting out from its right arm, crackling with electricity.
"As expected, you still haven't given up!"
The Third Kazekage sneered as he quickly retreated, sending Iron Sand flying at Sasori.
Having survived three assassination attempts from Sasori, he was always prepared, even though Sasori's abilities were perfectly countered by his.
Just as the puppet lunged, it suddenly fell from midair.
But the moment it hit the ground, a chain shot out from its left hand, wrapping around the Kazekage's left leg as he was retreating.
"Even Iron Sand can't completely neutralize a puppet's abilities in one strike!"
"Kazekage-sama should be familiar with the White Fang's powers, right?" Sasori chuckled.
The Third Kazekage's expression darkened. Just as he was about to break free from the chain, a surge of electricity coursed through him.
It's Konoha's White Fang's Lightning Style!
The last time they fought, he had already experienced it!
However, since he had that experience, how could he not have a countermeasure prepared?
His skin was coated with a layer of Iron Sand, which indeed couldn't defend against Lightning Style directly.
But he could make sure that this Iron Sand defense layer stayed a certain distance from his skin, allowing the electricity to be conducted away.
The Third Kazekage's reaction was lightning-fast. Though his body was surrounded by electric light, he only felt a slight numbness and hadn't lost his ability to fight completely.
"Impressive, as expected from the strongest Kazekage!"
Watching the Iron Sand gradually form into a massive sword, Sasori of the Red Sand couldn't help but admire.
But it was clear that the Third Kazekage's control over the Iron Sand wasn't what it used to be—much slower.
And this was exactly what Sasori had anticipated!
Boom!
Another sealing scroll was unsealed, and ten more puppet soldiers shot out. Two of them charged at the Iron Sand sword, five positioned themselves around the Third Kazekage, and chains shot out, wrapping around his body.
Before the Iron Sand could reach them, the puppets activated their mechanisms, driving thick iron stakes into the ground, locking them in place.
This terrain had been carefully selected by Sasori—the ground wasn't yet covered by windblown sand, so the stakes could secure firmly, preventing the Third Kazekage from flying away using Magnet Release.
The remaining three puppets defended Sasori from the Third Kazekage's attacks.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
One by one, the puppets were smashed to pieces by the Iron Sand.
Even though they were human puppets, in front of the Third Kazekage, they were as fragile as paper.
But Sasori didn't care. Avoiding the Kazekage's strikes, he pulled out another sealing scroll—ten more puppets emerged.
Each one had been crafted from the ninja Sasori had killed while carrying out the secret missions assigned by the Third Kazekage to destroy small nations.
At this moment, the Third Kazekage severed Sasori's chakra strings that controlled the White Fang puppet, causing the Lightning Style effect to dissipate instantly.
Yet Sasori remained unfazed. His ten new puppets spun into action, spreading out around the battlefield, releasing thick clouds of poison gas that quickly enveloped the Kazekage.
"Kazekage-sama, I've spent years preparing for this day!"
"You bastard!"
The Third Kazekage's expression finally changed.
The paralysis from the Lightning Style was quickly wearing off, and his control over the Iron Sand was returning—but it was too late.
He wasn't afraid of the poisonous weapons, but he couldn't stop himself from breathing.
In their previous encounters, Sasori had primarily relied on poison to injure him.
But with his speed, the poison had never been able to reach him.
Now, however… he was trapped!
Yet neither of the two combatants noticed the rattlesnake, with only its head peeking out, quietly watching them.
What a spectacle!
It was truly thrilling!
Shūichi almost wanted to applaud.
Indeed, no one knows you better than your enemy!
Sometimes, they understand you even better than you know yourself!
Sasori had thoroughly studied the Third Kazekage, especially after those three assassination attempts.
The Third Kazekage, on the other hand, was too proud and underestimated Sasori.
Though his cautious nature kept him wary of the traitorous Sasori, he still looked down on him.
For someone who had tried to assassinate him three times, he continued to use him—even if it was like using a broken chamber pot.
But a broken pot smells awful!
One day, it might just stink enough to suffocate you!
And now, the Third Kazekage had fallen into Sasori's trap.
He had unknowingly stuck his head into the chamber pot while sleeping.
First, Sasori used Lightning Style to slightly limit his abilities, then he restricted his movement, and finally, poisoned him!
Sasori's core strategy was always centered around poison.
Taking all of this in, Shūichi knew he had to learn from this—a dead enemy is the best and most lovable kind!
Seeing the Third Kazekage trapped in the poison gas, along with the rapidly spreading fumes, Shūichi could no longer stay hidden.
He immediately transformed back from the rattlesnake into his original form, and in a split second, transformed again.
The speed was so fast there was barely any pause, and he had turned from a rattlesnake into Roshi!
Clap!
Shūichi clapped his hands together, and the Four-Tails' chakra flared around him, enveloping his entire body, before quickly morphing into a lava armor.