Chapter 88: Dreams and Aspirations

The classroom buzzed with excitement as the students absorbed the wealth of information Instructor Hiroshi Tanaka had shared about the core shinobi arts.

Each young mind was racing with possibilities and dreams of their future as a ninja, the field they would like to specialise in. As the initial lecture drew to a close, Instructor Tanaka's stern gaze swept across the room.

"Now that we've covered the introductions, are there any questions?" he asked, his gravelly voice carrying a hint of challenge.

A hand shot up near the back of the class. It belonged to a boy with spiky black hair and an air of confidence that bordered on arrogance. Kenji Uchiha, his dark eyes gleaming with a mix of intelligence and impatience, called out, "Sensei, what if some of us already know the basics? Can we skip ahead to more advanced techniques? Or skip the grade and move on to next year?" 

Instructor Tanaka's eyes narrowed slightly, a faint smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "An excellent question," he replied, his tone measured. "It's true that many of you, especially in this elite class, may have received prior training from your families or clans. However," he paused for emphasis, "the academy curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation for all students, regardless of their background."

The instructor began to pace slowly at the front of the room, his hands clasped behind his back. "You see, not everyone here comes from a Ninja clan. Some of your classmates are from civilian families, and it's crucial that everyone learn the basics."

He continued, pacing slowly at the front of the room. "The basics taught here are the building blocks for all advanced techniques. Ignoring or rushing through them due to overconfidence would be a grave mistake. Remember, even the mightiest tree needs strong roots to withstand the fiercest storms."

The instructor's weathered hands clasped behind his back as he continued, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "And as for skipping the grade, that is very rare. In the past few years, grade skipping has become even rarer as the Hokage has refused it and only allowed that in exceptional cases. And the students themselves cannot ask for it. It is either recommended by the academy instructors or the Hokage himself. Even the parents and clan leaders have no say in this matter."

Kenji's face fell slightly at this news, but he quickly masked his disappointment with a look of indifference. The other students exchanged glances, some looking relieved and others intrigued by this information. Kenji slouched back in his seat, his earlier bravado deflating visibly. A few of his classmates snickered quietly, earning them a sharp glare from the young Uchiha.

"Now then, are there any other questions?" the instructor asked, his gaze sweeping the room once more.

In the front row, a hand rose hesitantly. It belonged to Ryu Hamura, his eyes bright with curiosity and determination.

"Yes, Ryu Hamura," the instructor acknowledged.

Ryu took a deep breath before speaking. "Sensei, I was wondering about specialised ninjutsu like medical ninjutsu. Will that be taught here at the academy?"

Instructor Tanaka's eyebrows rose slightly, intrigued by the question. "Interesting question, Ryu. Tell me, does your family have a background in the Shinobi arts?"

Ryu nodded. "Yes, sir. My grandfather is a retired Jonin."

The instructor stroked his chin thoughtfully. "I see. Well, to answer your question, no, specialised ninjutsu like medical techniques are not part of the standard Ninja Academy curriculum."

Even the instructor noticed Ryu was a little down after learning that the Medical Ninjutsu was not in the academy curriculum. He still needs to learn everything from scratch and obtain a license in this life, even though he was a trained doctor in a previous one.

Instructor continued and said, "However, in-depth training in these areas typically occurs after graduation, often under the guidance of specialised jonin or at dedicated facilities like the Leaf hospital. You need to apply at any of the medical academies in Leaf Village and show talent in medical Ninjutsu. Such knowledge is typically reserved for exceptional students who show particular aptitude and dedication. It's not a privilege extended to everyone. As for the reasons behind this, I suggest you discuss it further with your grandfather. He might provide some valuable insights."

Ryu nodded, absorbing the information. His mind raced with questions, but he held them back, not wanting to monopolise the class's time.

Before he could respond, Saya Uchiha leaned over from the adjacent desk. "Hey, Ryu," she whispered, her voice tinged with curiosity, "are you interested in becoming a medical ninja?"

Ryu turned to her, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yes, actually. That's my goal—to become a medical ninja."

Saya remembered how he almost died and was saved. She looked impressed. "Wow, that's pretty cool."

Hearing this exchange, Instructor Tanaka's interest was piqued.

"Ryu," he called, drawing the boy's attention back to the front of the class, "that's an unusual ambition for someone your age. Most young ninja-in-training are more interested in flashy Ninjutsu. What draws you to medical ninjutsu, even before you've begun learning basic ninjutsu?"

The entire class seemed to lean in, curious about his response. "It's simple, Sensei," he began, his voice clear and confident. "Medical ninjutsu saves lives. Just as I was once saved, I want to be able to save others."

A hush fell over the classroom as Ryu's words sank in. Even Instructor Tanaka seemed taken aback by the maturity of Ryu's response.

However, the moment was broken by an insulting snort from the back of the class. Kenji laughed, his face twisted in a sneer, unable to contain his disdain.

"Ha Ha! It sounds to me like you're just a coward," he taunted. "Everyone knows medical units are kept away from danger. You're just too scared to fight on the front lines. Medical ninjutsu? That's for weaklings who can't handle real combat!"

The class collectively held its breath; the tension in the room was palpable. Saya looked ready to jump to his defence, but she held up, waiting for Ryu to respond.

Ryu's expression remained calm, a stark contrast to Kenji's agitation. He smiled and turned to face Kenji's challenging gaze. "Tell me, would you have the courage to say the same thing to Lady Tsunade, the most talented medical ninja in the world?" he asked.

The mention of the formidable kunoichi caused Kenji's face to pale slightly, his bravado momentarily faltering. Still, he bounced back quickly, sneering, "That is different! She's a Legendary Sannin!"

Ryu's calm demeanour seemed to infuriate Kenji even more. The Uchiha boy's fists clenched at his sides, his face flushed with anger and embarrassment.

Without even answering Kenji further, Ryu turned back to Instructor Tanaka and said, "Ninjutsu, Taijutsu, and Genjutsu are incredible skills, but they weren't originally meant for saving lives. Of course, they can be used to protect people, but that wasn't their primary purpose. Medical Ninjutsu is different. Its sole purpose is to heal and save."

He paused, looked at the audience before him, before continuing. "Medical units are often looked down upon and called cowards for staying back during conflicts. But their true importance is only realised when someone is dying on the battlefield."

Kenji, not willing to back down, interjected, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "If they're not cowards, why don't they fight on the front lines and heal at the same time?"

Ryu nodded, acknowledging the question. "That's because combat-ready medics are rare. Medical ninjutsu is incredibly advanced and requires years of dedicated practice. That's why non-combat medics typically stay behind the main fighting force. But," he added with a determined glint in his eye, "you don't need to worry about me. I intend to become a combat medic."

Instructor Tanaka listened to this exchange with growing interest. The rest of the class seemed equally impressed, with many students nodding in agreement or whispering among themselves.

"Those are some profound thoughts, Ryu-kun," Tanaka said, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "It's clear you've given this a lot of consideration."

Saya, sitting next to him, looked at him with newfound respect. Even Kenji, still standing at the back of the class, seemed to be reconsidering his initial judgement.

Instructor Tanaka's voice took on a more serious tone as he addressed the entire class. "Ryu raises some excellent points. The path of a medical ninja is not an easy one, nor is it for the faint of heart. It requires exceptional chakra control, extensive knowledge of human anatomy, and the ability to remain calm under extreme pressure. Combat medics, in particular, must possess all these skills while also being proficient in standard combat techniques."

He paused, his gaze sweeping across the room, making eye contact with each student. "Remember this, all of you. There are many paths to strength and many ways to serve your village. Whether you dream of becoming a front-line fighter, a medical ninja, a sealmaster, or something entirely else, what matters most is your dedication and your will to protect what's precious to you." 

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