Chapter 20: Changed Mentality

Several days had passed since the last field defense battle, and Kirito and the others had been taking on numerous D-rank missions. Due to their high efficiency and excellent results, Team Three began to garner a notable reputation in mission execution.

On an early morning, Team Three gathered as usual at the observation deck near Central Street. However, instead of heading directly to the mission station, Guy instructed everyone to sit down.

"Very good! Everyone has been performing exceptionally well on recent missions," Guy said, beaming with pride. "The Third Hokage-sama has approved us to take on a C-rank mission."

"Oh!!" Rock Lee clenched his fists in excitement. "One step closer to my dream!"

"Yes, that's fantastic news!" TenTen added, her face lighting up with enthusiasm.

Poor kids, look at how thrilled they are... thought Kirito, hiding a small smile.

"Sensei, what's our new mission?" Kirito asked casually.

Guy waited for the team's excitement to settle before replying, "We'll take on the new mission tomorrow. However, since C-rank missions can involve potential danger, I want to give you special training before we officially begin."

"Bring it on, Guy-sensei! I won't let you down!" Rock Lee exclaimed, his eyes burning with determination.

"That's the spirit, Lee!" Guy said with a thumbs-up and a sparkle in his teeth. "Follow me to the training ground!"

The team arrived at the familiar training ground just outside Konoha, where they had previously undergone their ninja assessment.

"Before we begin the special training, I want to teach you a method of self-improvement that I've always relied on: self-regulation," Guy announced.

He explained that self-regulation involved imposing personal restrictions or challenges during training, pushing oneself to the limit, and creating a set of rules unique to oneself. These rules would act as a driving force, compelling one to confront challenges with utmost seriousness. Even in failure, the process itself would lead to growth through rigorous self-discipline.

"Do you all remember the contest between me and Kakashi?" Guy asked, referring to the time he had challenged Kakashi during the formation of Team Three.

The team recalled the moment vividly—Guy had proposed a competition, only for Kakashi to suggest a game of rock-paper-scissors, in which Guy lost.

"Before that contest, I declared that if I lost, I would run 500 laps around Konoha," Guy reminded them. "That is a prime example of self-regulation."

He elaborated further: "By imposing such extreme consequences, even a trivial game like rock-paper-scissors becomes a serious challenge. And if I fail, fulfilling that punishment, like running 500 laps, helps me grow stronger for the next challenge."

The team listened intently as Guy outlined the principles and benefits of self-regulation.

"Wow, Guy-sensei has always been so strict with himself," TenTen said, realizing the depth of his dedication.

"Sensei, I'll be even stricter with myself from now on!" Rock Lee cried, wiping away tears of inspiration.

Isn't this just a form of psychological conditioning? Kirito mused. But I've always approached it from the opposite perspective—rewarding myself for success rather than punishing failure. Perhaps this is the difference between a genius and an underdog.

Reflecting on Guy's methods, Kirito realized that Guy's relentless training had transformed him from a so-called "crane tail" into someone capable of nearly turning the tide of battles in the future. It was a testament to his hard work and perseverance.

In contrast, Kirito recognized his own recent complacency. Relying on his superior physique to overpower Rock Lee in spars, he had underestimated Lee's determination and effort.

This all started after I graduated from the Academy... Kirito thought grimly. Without a clear crisis or goal, I've let my guard down. But that's not acceptable.

Kirito recalled the looming threats of the Akatsuki, Madara, Kaguya, and even dangers from beyond the ninja world. These threats hung over the ninja world like a sword of Damocles, and complacency was not an option.

Relying on the Chakra Fruit's power alone will only lead to ruin. A chill ran down Kirito's spine. Thankfully, I caught this in time.

"Kirito? Are you listening?" Guy's voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

Kirito noticed that Guy, TenTen, and Rock Lee were staring at him curiously.

"It's so strange to see Kirito distracted," TenTen remarked.

"Indeed, is something wrong?" Rock Lee asked with concern.

Shaking his head, Kirito reassured them, "I'm fine. Sensei's words just gave me a lot to think about."

With that, Kirito returned his focus to Guy's lecture.

Guy proceeded to ask Lee and TenTen about their dreams and goals, tailoring training methods for each. Lee, aiming to become a powerful ninja through taijutsu, needed to enhance his physical prowess. TenTen, inspired by Tsunade, sought to improve her skills in combat and chakra control, beginning with physical strength training.

"Now, Kirito, what about your dreams and plans?" Guy asked.

Kirito reflected on his previous answers and replied, "To grow stronger and enjoy life on my own terms."

"Do you have any specific plans for that?" Guy pressed.

"I want to combine your Strong Fist with my own Soft Fist techniques to create a unique fighting style," Kirito explained.

Guy's face lit up with approval. "Very good! That's a solid goal."

Seeing Kirito's renewed determination, Guy felt a wave of relief. He had seen many geniuses fall to mediocrity due to arrogance and complacency. If Kirito had not come to this realization himself, Guy would have pushed him harder to avoid wasting his potential.

"Now that everyone has set their goals, let's begin the special training!" Guy declared. "We'll start with 2,000 laps around Konoha. If you can't complete it, prepare for 5,000 push-ups."

"Go!!!"

"Oh!!!" the three shouted in unison.

With that, Guy led Kirito, Lee, and TenTen on their grueling journey of special training.

(End of Chapter)

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