Start of the journey

Tsunade had decided to distance herself from the tumult of Konoha to fully dedicate herself to training her young disciple. Shikai, a unique blend of the Nara and Senju lineages, possessed exceptional potential, but his gifts required rigorous discipline to fully flourish.

Despite her known relaxed inclinations, Tsunade had a strict philosophy when it came to training, especially regarding Shikai. Their journey was not a mere escapade; it was a quest to forge a skilled ninja, capable of upholding the village's ideals while overcoming the challenges of his complex heritage.

Their first stop led them to a peaceful small village nestled near a winding river. The tranquility of the place, with its green hills and the constant murmur of water, made it an ideal location for intense training.

"This will be our spot," Tsunade declared as she inspected the area.

She pointed to a cleared space near the river. The place offered both the serenity needed for concentration and easy access to water for practicing medical techniques.

Shikai, curious yet focused, watched as Tsunade unrolled a training scroll. She did so with expert precision, revealing detailed instructions on advanced amplification of the *Mystic Palm* technique.

"Today, you will learn to heal wounds," she said.

"And how am I supposed to-"

Before Shikai could finish, Tsunade plunged her hand into the river with disconcerting speed and, as she withdrew her hand, there was a fish.

Placing a wounded fish on a flat stone, she said, "The *Mystic Palm* is not just a medical technique; it's an art that demands absolute control over chakra. You must adjust your chakra flow to regenerate tissues without damaging what remains intact. I know you already master it, so show me what you can do."

Tsunade demonstrated the technique first, with an ease that fascinated Shikai. The fish, whose fin had been damaged, began to move vigorously after a simple application of her chakra, even out of water, with her chakra keeping it alive.

Shikai took his turn near the river, surrounded by a few fish he had caught. His first attempt was clumsy, as the fish, though healed, died quickly within thirty seconds.

"Too much chakra," Tsunade corrected, observing his work. "You almost carbonized its internal organs. The key is to let just enough flow."

Shikai nodded, determined. He closed his eyes, regulated his breathing, and tried to sense the subtle flows of the fish beneath his hands. Gradually, he improved his control. After several hours, he succeeded in healing a wounded fin without causing further damage and keeping it alive for a little longer.

The day continued, punctuated by Tsunade's insightful guidance and Shikai's tireless efforts. As the sun set, he was covered in sweat, but his progress was undeniable.

"Not bad for a start," Tsunade admitted, a slight smile on her lips. She ruffled his hair.

...

That evening, they returned to a small village to rest and eat. True to her habits, Tsunade soon spotted a small inn where a dice game was underway.

"Wait for me here," she told Shikai, who looked at her warily.

He knew his aunt had a notorious reputation when it came to gambling. Yet, he couldn't dissuade her. Tsunade sat at a table, confident, and began a series of throws.

Unfortunately, her legendary bad luck at gambling quickly took its toll. Within a few hours, she had accumulated a considerable debt with the local players.

Shikai, on the other hand, had stayed aside, meditating on his day's exercises. It was only when Tsunade returned, looking nervous, that he realized something was amiss.

"What's going on?"

"We're leaving at dawn," she announced, her tone leaving little room for discussion.

At sunrise, they were already leaving the village, leaving behind furious creditors. Shikai, though frustrated by his aunt's behavior, kept his thoughts to himself.

"Why do you accumulate debts if you know you can't pay them?" he finally asked.

"Sooner or later, she'll have to give up this kind of pastime."

Tsunade shrugged with a wide smile. "Life is full of risks, Shikai. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. But never forget: it's what you learn in the process that matters."

Shikai looked at her skeptically.

"Aunt, why are you trying to act mature while you smell of alcohol? Isn't that a bit contradictory?"

*Cough*

Tsunade, visibly embarrassed, cleared her throat.

"I'm also your sensei, Shikai, so show some respect."

"From now on, I'll call you sensei."

"Huh? That's not necessary."

"But I insist, sensei!" Shikai added with a sarcastic tone.

"Ahh, I give up. Hmm. I wonder what we'll have for breakfast?"

"I suggest something light; I need to lose a few pounds."

"Hehe, I'll personally feed you, my little Shikai, don't worry!"

...

Thus, they continued on their way, leaving behind the village's calm and preparing for the challenges ahead.