Ch-78 Burden relieved.

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...

Tsunade was informed about Jiryoku's departure by Shikamaru, clearly at Jiryoku's own request.

Tsunade promptly arrived at the Yamanaka Clan Compound where Jiryoku was staying.

"You haven't healed properly. You'll need more rest to make a full recovery. Although your recovery speed is surprisingly fast, you'll require another month if you continue at this rate," Tsunade said.

"You're correct, and it's within my calculations. I know that I can't train during the entire month, but in the meantime, I can work on mastering 'Sage Mode' since it doesn't require me to be in peak physical condition. It requires control over chakra and Nature energy, which I can practice in my current body condition," replied Jiryoku.

Tsunade nodded without saying anything further.

Afterward, Jiryoku used the 'Summoning Technique,' and Katsuyu appeared in front of him. "It's nice to see you doing well, Master Jiryoku."

"Now, if you may, please," requested Jiryoku.

Katsuyu nodded, and Jiryoku disappeared in a cloud of smoke. As he left, he smiled and nodded towards Ino.

"Lady Tsunade, whenever you need me, I will be available," Katsuyu said to Tsunade.

Tsunade simply nodded, and Katsuyu also vanished in a cloud of smoke.

For a few moments after Jiryoku left, there was silence. Ino broke the silence, saying, "Did you notice he smiled many times today compared to before? It's as if there was a burden on him that has now been released."

"There was indeed a burden on him, especially to seek revenge for his parents' death, and now that he has taken his revenge, he seems to be more liberated," said Inoichi, rubbing Ino's head.

Everyone present here nodded, showing their agreement with Inoichi's statement.

"I can't even imagine how powerful Jiryoku will become after mastering 'Sage Mode,'" said Shikaku.

"Yes, not to mention that when he fought Jiraiya-Sama, he used some kind of technique that boosted his strength so much that he could easily contend with Jiraiya-Sama and even defeat him with ease," added Choza from the sidelines.

"Although we can't be as strong as him, at the very least, we can try not to fall too far behind him," said Shikamaru.

Shikaku placed his hand on Shikamaru's head and said, "And to achieve that, you need to work hard."

"Sigh, what a drag. Isn't there an easier method?" grumbled Shikamaru.

Everyone started laughing after hearing Shikamaru's comment.

----

In the Shikkotsu Forest, Jiryoku appeared in a cloud of smoke, and before him stood Katsuyu, who was over 1200 feet in size.

"Welcome, Master Jiryoku," greeted the largest Katsuyu.

"It's nice to meet you, Lady Katsuyu. I've longed to meet you in person and witness your true and colossal form. Though I am blind and can't literally see you with my eyes, my senses allow me to perceive your presence," explained Jiryoku.

"You wish to learn 'Sage Mode,' which is commendable. I can assist you with that, but you must understand that it's a very challenging art, and you could even risk your life during the process," cautioned Katsuyu.

"I am fully aware of the risks involved in mastering 'Sage Mode,' and I am determined to devote myself entirely to its pursuit," declared Jiryoku with unwavering determination.

Katsuyu agreed and said, "Very well, then. My smaller forms will accompany you and provide assistance as you strive to learn 'Sage Mode.'"

Jiryoku nodded and before departing, he inquired, "My sword should still be here, correct?"

"Yes, your sword has been carefully kept. It's located right beside the slug pond where you will be mastering 'Sage Mode,'" replied Katsuyu.

With that, Jiryoku was guided by the smaller Katsuyu to the pond, where he would begin his journey to master 'Sage Mode. First, he retrieved his sword, which he had left there for an entire month.

Jiryoku said to Katsuyu, "Lady Katsuyu, please tell me everything about 'Sage Mode,' including its effectiveness. Also, if you don't mind, I'd like to clean my sword while listening to you. I haven't cleaned my sword in a whole month."

"Yes, Master Jiryoku, you can clean your sword while I explain 'Sage Mode' to you," replied Katsuyu.

Jiryoku nodded and took out a cloth to clean his sword while Katsuyu explained 'Sage Mode.'

"In 'Sage Mode,' you will become many times stronger than your base self. In the 'Sage Mode' taught by me, you will possess a unique ability – your body will become resilient, making attacks less effective against you, similar to my own body. I can absorb almost all physical attacks on my body," explained Katsuyu.

"That's indeed a remarkable attribute," commented Jiryoku.

"Yes, and if you use the final move known as the 'Black Hole,' the injuries you receive will be significantly reduced, if you are in the 'Sage Mode'" added Katsuyu.

Jiryoku nodded in understanding.

"Now, let's discuss the dangers you will face while mastering 'Sage Mode.' If someone fails to control the natural energy, their entire body can be dissolved by the acid. It's the most painful death among all the places where 'Sage Mode' is taught," cautioned Katsuyu.

"That's why I choose candidates for mastering 'Sage Mode' very carefully," concluded Katsuyu.

"Do not worry, Lady Katsuyu. I am someone who has very high control over chakra, so you don't have to worry," assured Jiryoku.

After saying this, Jiryoku sheathed his sword and inquired, "So, I have to jump into the pond to feel the Natural energy, correct?"

"Yes," replied Katsuyu.

Jiryoku opened his kimono and, wearing only pants, jumped into the pond with Katsuyu on his shoulder. And so, Jiryoku's journey to master 'Sage Mode' began.

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