More Than a Fight

Kaizen woke up earlier than usual the next morning because he wanted to begin working on some long-distance cardio. To do this, he decided to make use of one of the tracks on academy grounds.

After an hour of jogging at a steady pace, utilizing his chakra muscle recovery technique (CMRT), he decided to push himself to determine how long he could maintain top speed. For the next fifteen minutes, he ran as fast as he could, all without using the chakra muscle enhancement technique (CMET).

By the time he stopped, it wasn't because his chakra reserves were fully depleted but that his lungs and heart were not developed enough to efficiently maintain oxygen supply to all of his muscles.

He was physically exhausted, which provided a good reference point to build upon. This was something to be expected and part of the reason for the training to begin with.

Kaizen decided to continue this morning routine each day as he knew how vital a high amount of stamina would be to him in the future.

In the afternoon hours, the training ground would hum with a different energy as Kaizen focused on mastering chakra control. He visualized the chakra flowing through his body, enhancing his physical capabilities, allowing him to perform techniques with superhuman strength and speed.

He continuously practiced utilizing more and more chakra, steadily increasing his control and thus, increasing the output of his physical capabilities. Each session began with him practicing his taijutsu and kenjutsu at his absolute peak performance, focused on transitioning the experiences gained from his lucid dreaming into the real world.

The evenings found Kaizen in the dimly lit corners of the academy's library. Surrounded by several textbooks, he considered different topics of study as projects of his. His main project was catching up on this world's medical, chemical, biological, and anatomical knowledge and adapting what he previously knew to any new or differing information found in this world.

To prevent him from burning out, he would give himself some side projects of things to study like the various academic subjects being taught at the academy. He wasn't yet sure if he wanted to graduate early and if so, in what year, but he knew that studying now would give him the ability to later if he so chooses.

Aside from that, he was pretty curious about the topics of study in this world and how they added to the lore of Naruto or even differed from what he might have remembered reading. The reason he is focusing so heavily on learning is that in both his past and current lives, he fully subscribes to the notion that knowledge is power.

Considering how obscure or underexplored many of the concepts from Naruto were, who knew what he might discover through his reading.

Aside from these activities, a good portion of Kaizen's days were punctuated with social interactions. He maintained his mask of friendliness with practiced ease. It had become much more natural for him to act in this manner through the weeks of required usage.

One of the important events of the month was the upcoming tournaments. Deciding to seek more information, Kaizen raised his hand during one of the classes.

"Sensei, could you tell us more about how the tournaments are structured?" he asked.

Hiroshi Sensei paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Ah, the academy tournaments," he began, addressing the entire class. "These tournaments are a significant event here at the academy. They are not just a test of skill but also a key opportunity for student recognition and advancement."

He continued, "The structure is quite detailed. Due to our large class sizes, we conduct preliminary rounds within the academy first. Only the top 8 students from each grade bracket advance to the publicly displayed tournaments. This ensures that only the best represent our academy and also so the events last for a reasonable duration."

Hiroshi Sensei walked over to the board and drew a simple diagram. "The public tournaments are held over the last two weekends of January, April, July, and October. Since this month is April, the tournaments will be starting soon with Classes Q-Z competing on the 20th, Classes G-P on the 21st, Classes D-F on the 27th, and finally, Classes A-C on the 28th. The higher-grade groups, being more advanced, tend to attract the most spectators."

He turned back to the class, noting their attentive expressions. "These events are open to the public, and citizens of Konoha can buy tickets or even season tickets to attend. There are various seating options, including premium viewing areas with better amenities and complimentary food and drinks. The academy gains sponsorships and sells advertising spaces to businesses in Konoha. They also allow businesses to rent spaces within the stadium to sell merchandise. These businesses have to pay a small percentage of their profits to the academy in addition to the rental price of the space. Overall, among other included features, these tournaments generate significant revenue for the academy, serving as one of the sources of funding for our resources and training equipment."

Another student raised their hand. "Sensei, I remember hearing from somewhere about gambling being involved as well. Is that true?"

Hiroshi Sensei nodded. "Yes, gambling is a part of the tournaments. Principal Kamiko personally oversees this aspect, ensuring it is well-managed. There will be basic information on the students participating such as their areas of talent, class performance, family clan, and so on. The academy controls the betting odds, money collections, and subsequent payouts. Only those of the appropriate age and not involved with the academy are allowed to participate in betting. Principal Kamiko has a committee in charge of ensuring no corruption takes place within these bets. The ones found attempting to cheat are severely punished by the village."

Kaizen listened intently, absorbing the information. The tournaments were clearly more than just a competition; they were a complex event with multiple layers of significance.

"Any other questions?" Hiroshi Sensei asked, looking around the room.

"Sensei, can you explain the specific rules governing the tournaments?" one student asked Hiroshi Sensei.

Hiroshi nodded, appreciating the question. "Certainly," he replied, turning to address the entire class. "The tournaments are structured to showcase different levels of skill and ability. For students in Years 5-6, as well as those in Classes A-C from Years 2-4, the use of ninja tools, genjutsu, and ninjutsu is permitted during their matches. This allowance reflects their advanced training and capabilities."

He paused to let the information sink in, then continued, "These matches are highly anticipated because they demonstrate a wide range of techniques and strategies. The inclusion of ninja tools and various jutsu adds layers of complexity and excitement, both for the participants and the spectators."

"For the other classes and years, including all Year 1 participants, the rules are different. You are restricted from using ninja tools, genjutsu, and ninjutsu in your matches. This is to ensure that you focus on developing a strong foundation in taijutsu first. Although this makes your matches less flashy, they are still fiercely competitive. The emphasis is on your physical skill, strategy, and technique."

He looked around the room, making sure everyone understood. "This distinction in rules highlights the progression of skills as you advance through the years. It's important to master the basics before moving on to more complex techniques."

Another student raised their hand. "Sensei, does that mean the Year 1 matches will be less popular?"

Hiroshi Sensei smiled. "That is usually the case. It's mainly because spectators enjoy seeing the variety and flashiness of advanced techniques. However, do not underestimate the importance of mastering taijutsu at your level. The skills you develop now will be the foundation for everything you learn in the future."

Kaizen understood the reasoning behind the rules. The explanation gave him a clearer picture of what to expect and what was expected of him in upcoming tournaments.

"Sensei, are there other benefits to performing well in these matches?" another student asked.

Hiroshi Sensei's smile broadened. "Yes, there are several significant benefits," he began. "Firstly, performing well in these tournaments can affect your rank within your class bracket. High performance can lead to moving up to higher graded classes, which means more advanced training opportunities and resources."

He continued, "Additionally, doing well in the tournaments provides students with publicity among both citizens and shinobi of Konoha. These events are watched by many, including potential mentors and sponsors. Your performance could open doors for future opportunities once you graduate from the academy."

He paused, letting the students absorb the information. "Recognition in these tournaments can also lead to mentorship from more experienced shinobi. They might take a special interest in you, offering guidance and advanced training that you might not otherwise have access to."

"Moreover, excelling in these matches demonstrates your capabilities and dedication. It shows that you are serious about your growth as a shinobi, which can positively influence how you are perceived by your peers and superiors."

The class broke out into discussion upon hearing how important these tournaments could be. Some of them felt anxious and worried about their future, especially knowing that taijutsu wasn't their strong suit.

Hiroshi Sensei raised his hand to signal for silence, noticing the concerns among the students. "I want to make one thing very clear," he began, his tone serious but reassuring. "These tournaments, while important, are not the end all be all of what defines you or your future as shinobi."

The class seemed taken aback, and Hiroshi Sensei continued, "The academy offers many paths and specializations. For instance, someone who may not excel in combat could still become an exceptional medical-nin, using their skills to heal and save lives. Similarly, a student with a keen sense for detail and tracking might become a top-notch hunter-nin. These tournaments are primarily focused on combat skills, but they do not capture the full range of talents and abilities that are necessary for a well-rounded shinobi force."

He glanced around the room, ensuring that his words were sinking in. "The academy evaluates a variety of aspects when determining class placements and ranks. Your performance in these tournaments is just one part of the picture. There will be other opportunities to showcase your individual strengths and specialties as you progress."

"Remember, all of you are still in your first month at the academy. You haven't experienced the full range of activities and evaluations yet. As you continue, you will have many chances to prove your skills in different areas. So, while you should strive to do your best in these tournaments, do not feel discouraged if combat isn't your strongest area."

Kaizen and his classmates nodded, a sense of relief spreading through the room. The understanding that there were many paths to success seemed to ease some of the pressure they felt.

Hiroshi Sensei smiled warmly. "Each of you has unique strengths and talents. The key is to discover and cultivate them. The academy is here to help you grow in all areas, not just combat. Keep an open mind and take advantage of every opportunity to learn and improve."

With that, the class session resumed, but the students now had a more balanced perspective on the importance of the upcoming tournaments and their own individual paths within the academy.