**Chapter 72: Shizune’s Melancholy**

After Han's departure, Guzma and his team exchanged glances, puzzled by Reiki's familiarity with the mysterious red figure. They sensed tension between Reiki and the figure, yet Reiki had intervened to help them. Guzma, feeling awkward, prepared to offer a few polite words of gratitude before leaving. 

"Brother Reiki, thank you for helping us despite everything that happened," he began.

"I need something now," Reiki cut in, surprising Guzma. "You and your team need to get injuries. Different types, preferably severe. I want to practice my medical ninjutsu. That'll be the reward you give me."

His suggestion stunned them all. Who would willingly injure themselves? But Reiki's tone was sincere, and eventually, Guzma agreed, albeit reluctantly. Four hours later, a very perplexed but fully healed group watched as Reiki left, still trying to make sense of what had just happened.

---

That evening, Reiki finally caught up with Shisui and Nozuki. 

"Did Jiraiya-sama find you?" Shisui asked, curious about why Reiki returned alone.

"Jiraiya-sama?" Reiki scratched his head, embarrassed. It seemed Tsunade had sent Jiraiya to check on him. "I didn't see him," he replied sheepishly. No doubt, Jiraiya had returned to his 'research' after confirming they were safe.

After a few more lighthearted exchanges, the group made their way back to the village. Once there, Shisui went to visit his family, while Nozuki went to report to Minato. Reiki, meanwhile, headed back to the Senju compound.

---

As soon as he stepped inside, a small figure launched herself at him. 

"Brother!" Shizune hugged him tightly.

"Shizune, why aren't you at school?" Reiki asked, slightly concerned. Usually, she'd be studying or assisting at the hospital.

"I... I missed you," she murmured, holding on tighter. Sensing something was off, Reiki gently guided her inside. 

"Let's get some food. You can tell me all about what's bothering you over dinner."

Shizune nodded and followed him inside. After a warm meal and some cheerful storytelling from Reiki, she seemed to relax, but a lingering sadness still showed on her face. Later that night, as Reiki refined his chakra, Shizune finally opened up.

"Brother Reiki… I don't know what to do," she began, her voice shaky. "Why does Uncle Dan want me to do something against Lady Tsunade? I... I feel so confused."

Reiki's expression hardened at the mention of Kato Dan. He had heard enough to know Kato's involvement in the village politics was troublesome, but hearing that Shizune was caught in it fueled a protective anger.

"That's adult business, Shizune. Don't worry about it," Reiki reassured her, placing a calming hand on her head. "You don't need to take on those burdens. Focus on becoming stronger. That's all you need to worry about for now."

As his words sank in, Shizune's tension eased, and she eventually fell asleep. Reiki stayed by her side, his mind racing with thoughts of Kato Dan. If this man had made life difficult for Tsunade, Reiki would find a way to protect her and Shizune from his influence.

---

The next morning, Shizune awoke to the comforting smell of breakfast. Still slightly groggy, she smiled as Reiki teased her about drooling in her sleep, her melancholy fading with his gentle humor. By the time she finished eating, she felt more at ease than she had in days.

Reiki patted her on the head. "I'll go do some morning training and be back to take you to the training grounds."

Her face lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. Watching him leave, she thought about how much she cherished these quiet moments with him, her cheeks turning a little pink as she daydreamed.

---

Outside, Reiki ran into the energetic Kakashi, Guy, and Asuma. Each greeted him with boundless enthusiasm, eager to challenge him.

"Boss Reiki, you're back!" Kakashi grinned.

"I'll challenge you to a match! This time, I won't lose," Asuma added.

"On the path to youth, we must surpass ourselves every day, and today, that includes surpassing you, Reiki!" Guy declared passionately.

Reiki chuckled. "Well, bring it on then. Let's see how much you've all improved." 

He braced himself for what would be a lively start to the day.

>>>>>

Gimme Power stones I'm Poor