Chapter 5: The Path of Ryu - The Fourth Hokage

The approach Ryu adopted to amass reputation points as the Hokage was elegantly simple yet profoundly impactful. In the absence of momentous events that would naturally garner recognition, he relied on the power of small gestures and interactions, which ultimately yielded substantial dividends. As the esteemed Fourth Hokage, Ryu committed himself to visiting the populace, extending his benevolence and enthusiasm to the humble and honest villagers. With each encounter, he effortlessly embodied the spirit of camaraderie, leaving an indelible impression on those he met and thus earning invaluable reputation points.

Consequently, upon concluding his duties at the Hokage Building, Ryu chose not to return to the desolate expanse of Senju Compound. Instead, he adorned himself in the resplendent Hokage's Imperial Robe and ventured into the heart of the village. There, he bestowed warm greetings upon the neighboring villagers, their faces lighting up upon his arrival.

"Greetings, Fourth Generation!"

"Hello, esteemed elder! Take heed of the path before you, for a trifling stone lies in wait. Allow me to assist you..."

"Hokage-sama, I implore you to sample these genuine tricolored meatballs, without any charge."

"But how can that be? Even the Hokage mustn't partake without recompense. Please accept the payment I offer, my good sir..."

"Hokage-sama! I shall grow into the Hokage who safeguards the village and its people, just as you do!"

"What an extraordinary aspiration! Dedicate yourself to diligent study at the ninja academy, strive for progress every day, and remain unwavering in your attendance and focus. Only then will your dreams come to fruition..."

"Hokage-sama..."

"..."

As Ryu continued his journey, he warmly greeted each passing villager, discarding any semblance of his true identity. Though his countenance was on the verge of being frozen in laughter, the echoes of "Hokage reputation +1" reverberating in his mind filled him with exultant joy.

Within a short span of time, he had garnered more than 50 reputation points. Upon completing his rounds for the day, amassing three or four hundred points would prove to be an effortless feat, not to mention surpassing a thousand.

If he sustained this trajectory, the acquisition of the much-coveted The Wood Release: Laughing Buddha jutsu would be well within reach in a little over a month, at most.

For Ryu, the decision to prioritize Wood Release as his foremost choice stemmed not solely from its association with the Senju lineage, but also from his recognition that his current prowess rendered many of the system's abilities inconsequential. Only a select few possessed the potential to markedly enhance his strength and equip him to contend against the formidable Nine-Tails, albeit at a steep price.

Amongst these abilities, Wood release, renowned as the deity of the ninja world, demonstrated mastery over tailed beasts. Without question, Senju, symbolizing the very essence of Konoha, stood as Ryu's resolute preference.

Envisioning a future in which he would utilize the The Wood Release: Laughing Buddha jutsu to reclaim the indomitable spirit of the First Hokage, Ryu found himself consumed by intoxicating anticipation. A radiant smile embellished his visage, which blushed with an iridescent hue, emblematic of his burgeoning excitement.

"Such unparalleled splendor adorns the visage of the Hokage!"

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