32 Ch-32 I must also graduate.

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...

"I believe I have thoroughly explained everything, so may I request your permission to leave now, Hokage-sama? I have been traveling and fighting throughout the entire day, and I would greatly appreciate some rest," Jiryoku expressed, his fatigue evident in his voice.

With a reassuring tone, Hiruzen responded, "Certainly, you are free to go. Your actions were purely acts of self-defense, and it's important to recognize that you were completely unaware of the identities of the ROOT ninjas. Therefore, you are not at fault."

Expressing gratitude, Jiryoku nodded and said, "Thank you, Hokage-sama." With that, he made his way out of the Hokage's office, eager to find solace in much-needed rest.

Hiruzen turned his attention to the Ino-Shika-Cho trio and spoke empathetically, "While I cannot change the events that have already taken place, there happen to be a few establishments owned by the Shimura clan. I believe Danzo would be willing to offer those to you as compensation from his side." He glanced towards Danzo and asked, "Isn't that right?"

Danzo simply nodded, silently affirming Hiruzen's words.

"Thank you for your judgment, Hokage-sama," Ino-Shika-Cho expressed their gratitude before leaving the Hokage's office, relieved and appreciative of the resolution provided.

.....

After Ino-Shika-Cho left the Hokage's office and had traveled a short distance away, all three of them came to a halt. It was at this moment that Shikaku spoke up, saying, "It was clearly evident that Danzo would not receive any significant punishment. However, what we have obtained is more than sufficient for us. I wasn't even expecting this much."

"Yes, you're right. I believe the Hokage must be angered by Jiryoku's remarks regarding the ROOT ninjas," Inoichi agreed.

"Hmm, both of you are correct. I think it's imperative for us to keep a close watch on Jiryoku from now on. Danzo may attempt to attack him since we are well aware of Danzo's character and his modus operandi. While he wasn't successful this time, he will likely be better prepared and launch a more calculated attack next time," Choza stated.

"This would have certainly been the case if it were a situation from the past. However, we must consider the aftermath of the Uchiha massacre, which resulted in Danzo losing a significant number of his ROOT ninjas. As a result, it is highly probable that he will allocate his resources towards training and reinforcing the remaining members of his organization. Knowing Danzo's meticulous nature, he never underestimates anyone and always remains prepared for unexpected circumstances. Interestingly, that is the one aspect about him that I find commendable," Shikaku elaborated, his tone reflecting his insightful analysis.

As Shikaku's words resonated with the others, they nodded in agreement, understanding the logic and strategic thinking behind Danzo's potential actions.

"Very well then, let us proceed to meet our children and inform our wives that the perpetrator responsible for attacking our precious ones has been justly dealt with. It is crucial to ensure our wives' peace of mind, for we know all too well that they will not let us hear the end of it otherwise," Shikaku suggested, a hint of concern flickering across his face. Observing this, both Choza and Inoichi erupted into laughter, and Shikaku, too, joined in from the sidelines, the camaraderie among the trio evident in their shared amusement.

From their discussions, it became evident that they held a strong sense of camaraderie and considered Jiryoku as one of their own. This sentiment stemmed from the deep bond between their children and Jiryoku.

.....

The next morning at the ninja academy, just outside the classroom, a group of children had gathered. Standing at the center of the group was Lee, a wry smile adorning his face. Just a few minutes prior, he had been sharing with Tenten and Neji what he had heard from his teacher. True to his usual style, Lee spoke with a booming voice that caught the attention of the children around him. Intrigued by his words, they surrounded him, bombarding him with questions, questioning the validity of his claims.

"How could I possibly lie about something like this? I assure you, my teacher, the esteemed Blue Beast of Konoha, Might Guy, an Elite Jonin, imparted this knowledge to me," Lee proudly proclaimed, introducing his teacher to the curious crowd.

They had many thoughts and opinions they wanted to express, but a collective silence fell upon them, driven by fear of what might happen if Jiryoku were to discover their discussions behind his back. The reputation and image Jiryoku had cultivated during his time at the ninja academy instilled a sense of uncertainty among his peers, leaving them unsure of the consequences they might face.

As it was still morning and class had yet to begin, a crowd of students gathered, their curiosity piqued by the commotion and discussions unfolding. Among the students present, Sasuke was also there. Upon hearing Lee's words and witnessing the crowd's fervent conversation, Sasuke withdrew from the gathering, his fist clenched tightly as he muttered to himself, "This is the strength I need. That man must have possessed similar strength during his own time at Jiryoku's age. No, I cannot waste my time here. I must also graduate swiftly so that I can accelerate my own growth and become as strong as he is."

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