Ch 27: Excessive Attention

After a few days of tranquility and routine at the academy, Yasuke's life takes an unexpected turn, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his path as a shinobi.

The class was in full swing, with the teacher explaining a complex technique, when suddenly the door slid silently open and an ANBU appeared on the threshold. All the students fell silent, aware that the presence of an ANBU usually foreshadowed matters of importance. The professor stopped his explanation and turned to face the newcomer.

The ANBU, concealing his identity under the typical attire, addressed the professor directly and delivered a message before disappearing as quickly as he had arrived. After reading the message, the professor looked up and located Yasuke among the students.

-Shiya Yasuke, the Hokage requests your presence," the professor announced, his tone serious and formal.

Yasuke's classmates exchanged looks full of surprise and curiosity. Being summoned by the Hokage was not an everyday event, especially for an academy student. Yasuke, equally surprised, gathered his things and got up from his seat.

-Me, sensei? -Yasuke looked around for confirmation, incredulous.

-Yes, go at once. Don't keep the Hokage waiting," the teacher replied with a nod.

As Yasuke made his way to the Hokage's office, his mind was flooded with thoughts and questions. He remembered Nora's words, his decision to become a medical ninja and the recent demonstration of his skills in front of Tsunade. Could this summons be related to his future as a shinobi? Or perhaps to the recent events?

With each step toward the Hokage's office, his resolve strengthened, ready to face whatever came, armed with the lessons and purpose he had cemented in his heart.

Arriving at the Hokage's office, Yasuke took a deep breath before entering, preparing himself for the unknown.

15 minutes ago at the Hokage Office

Fifteen minutes ago in the Hokage Office, the discussion about Yasuke's future as a shinobi was in full swing.

-Sensei, Yasuke's medical skills could mean a major breakthrough for us. His determination to become a medical ninja and his demonstration of skills are certainly exceptional," Tsunade commented, clearly excited about Yasuke's potential.

Hiruzen reflected on the implications of Yasuke's unique abilities for Konoha, especially in the current context of conflict.

-Yasuke's dedication and unique abilities could be extremely valuable to Konoha, especially during these times of conflict. We should consider how his inclination towards ninja medicine can strengthen our warfare capabilities," Hiruzen pondered, appreciating the opportunities Yasuke offered for the future.

The ANBU, however, took a more cautious and skeptical stance.

-Hokage, while Tsunade's enthusiasm is understandable, Yasuke's lack of combat experience concerns me. While his potential is undoubted, being a shinobi requires more than medical skills, especially in times of war," ANBU warned, stressing the need for caution in Yasuke's assessment.

Hiruzen pondered the situation.

-Yasuke's ability to improve our medical skills is undeniable, and at this time, a medical ninja with his talents could be invaluable," Hiruzen murmured, contemplating the future.

ANBU's insistence on caution elicited Tsunade's blatant annoyance.

However the ANBU ignored her and continued to argue his thoughts.

-Hokage, while I appreciate the young man's medical potential, we must be cautious. Talent alone does not guarantee success on the battlefield. Yasuke needs to prove that he can withstand the pressure and demands of being a shinobi in these trying times," ANBU expressed with conviction, stressing the importance of a thorough evaluation of Yasuke's capabilities.

-Sempai, don't be so negative. His extraordinary abilities are something never seen before in the village," replied Tsunade, frustrated by the ANBU's attitude.

-That peculiar kekkei genkai that suddenly emerged... we know how greedy other villages can be, not to mention our own council full of.... -ANBU was interrupted when Hiruzen cleared his throat.

-Ahem, I know your opinion of village elders, but try to express yourself in a less... ahem, direct manner," Hiruzen asked for discretion.

The ANBU nodded, while Tsunade smiled and threw a thumbs up to her old friend, as she agreed about how annoying those on the council were. At this, Hiruzen sighed and continued the conversation.

-As for the boy's special abilities, we will talk to him and see how to proceed next. -The Hokage said.

Upon entering the Hokage's office, Yasuke found the gaze of three prominent Konoha figures resting upon him: Tsunade Senju, Hiruzen Sarutobi, and an ANBU who kept his identity hidden behind a mask. Despite the weight of the situation, Yasuke maintained his apathetic and stoic composure, a facade he had perfected over the years to hide his disconnect with the social world around him.

Yasuke stopped in front of the prominent figures waiting for him. With a serene but firm posture, he began the conversation.

-My name is Shiya Yasuke. I have been summoned here by the Hokage," he introduced himself, maintaining his usual apathetic composure.

Hiruzen, with a welcoming smile, nodded in acknowledgment.

-That's right, Yasuke. I want to begin by congratulating you on your recent achievement. We have been informed of your crucial role in saving Nora Senju, who was suffering from a serious illness. Your ability to cure a condition that many considered hopeless is not only a testament to your skill but also to your dedication to saving lives," said Hiruzen, his words full of sincerity and appreciation.

Yasuke, though slightly surprised by the congratulations, kept his expression stoic.

-I did what I thought was necessary, Hokage. My goal is to use my skills to help those in need," Yasuke replied, reflecting his firm conviction toward his path as a ninja medic.

-That is a noble aspiration, and one that fits well with the values of Konoha," Hiruzen continued, nodding approvingly. Your act of compassion and skill has not only saved a valuable life for the village but also demonstrated exceptional potential in you. It is important that we continue to nurture that potential.

-Yasuke, we have heard of your recent demonstration of skills, both medical and a unique kekkei genkai. Could you explain more about your training in ninja medicine and how you discovered your skills? -Hiruzen asked in a measured tone, knowing that they were dealing with an unusual case.

Yasuke paused, weighing his words carefully so as not to reveal too much of his true story.

-My interest in ninja medicine began at a very young age. I have spent a lot of time studying and practicing on my own. As for my skills, I've always had them... I suppose you could consider it a non-heritable kekkei genkai," he replied, keeping his origin a mystery.

Tsunade, intrigued by the unique nature of his abilities, interjected.

-Your abilities could change the way we approach medicine and battle. However, I am concerned about your combat experience and how you will handle pressure in real situations.

The ANBU, watching Yasuke closely, added his concern.

-While your medical skills are impressive, the battlefield is a brutal environment. The ability to remain calm and make quick decisions is crucial. How do you plan to deal with that challenge?

Yasuke, though internally wrestling with the nature of his reincarnation and his abilities, knew he could not reveal the truth.

-I understand the concerns. My goal is to save lives. I believe that, with proper training and experience, I can learn to handle pressure and contribute positively on the battlefield and beyond," he said confidently, his response reflecting his resolve to do good in this new world, despite the odds.

Hiruzen nodded, satisfied with Yasuke's response.

-If I may add," Yasuke said, making sure he had everyone's attention, "I understand the nature of a shinobi and what is expected of us on the battlefield. But, my focus and main motivation is to save lives, not take them.

The ANBU, after hearing Yasuke's statement, couldn't help but frown under his mask.

-Saving lives, huh? -he said with a tone bordering on disbelief. That sounds noble, but on the battlefield, such ideals can be your undoing. A shinobi must be prepared to make tough decisions, including taking lives if necessary.

Tsunade, on the other hand, was somewhat saddened to hear Yasuke's words, recalling her own experiences and losses.

-That is a touching and noble perspective, Yasuke," she admitted in a soft tone, looking at him with a mixture of respect and sadness. And while that conviction is valuable, you must be prepared for the reality of the shinobi world.

Hiruzen, the Hokage, nodded, recognizing the sincerity and conviction in Yasuke's words, but he also knew he had a duty to guide him toward a full understanding of his role.

-Yasuke, your desire to save lives is admirable and reflects the spirit of compassion we value in Konoha," Hiruzen said calmly. However, as a shinobi, you will sometimes be put in situations where you will have to act as a kunai in the hands of your leader, ready to take a life if ordered to do so. It's a harsh reality, but part of our duty to protect the village and its inhabitants.

The conversation made it clear that while Yasuke's motivation was noble, the path of the shinobi would require him to adapt and face more complex and often painful realities.

After the conversation, Hiruzen, clearly pleased with the encounter and recognizing the value Yasuke could bring to Konoha, decided it was time to conclude the meeting.

-Yasuke, your contribution to the village has already been significant, and I expect great things from you in the future. You are free to go," said Hiruzen with a gentle smile.

Hearing his release, Yasuke prepared to leave the office, but Tsunade saw an opportunity to delve into medical matters with someone who shared her passion.

-Yasuke, would you mind if I joined you for a moment? I would like to discuss more about your medical techniques," Tsunade apologized to Hiruzen and quickly followed Yasuke, who seemed reluctant but at the same time unable to refuse, given his own curiosity about Tsunade's abilities.

- Sensei, I apologize, but I don't think you need me anymore.

Hiruzen sighed, granting Tsunade license to absent herself, then turned to the ANBU who had remained silent for most of the meeting.

-Let's stay for a moment, I have a decision I have made and I need to discuss it," Hiruzen said to the ANBU, indicating the importance of the conversation that was about to take place.

As Tsunade and Yasuke left the office, they began to exchange ideas and perspectives on ninja medicine, laying the foundation for a mentoring and collaborative relationship that could greatly benefit Konoha's future in the medical field and beyond.

To be continued...