Ch28 : Decisions

A week after the meeting with the prominent figures of Konoha, Yasuke found himself engrossed in a theory class at the academy. His mind, though focused on the lesson, could not help but wander back to recent events and the advice he had received from Tsunade. Just as he was pondering his future as a medical ninja, a messenger entered the classroom and requested his presence in the principal's office.

-Yasuke Shiya, please follow me," said the messenger in a firm voice.

Upon arrival, the principal told him some unexpected but welcome news: he had been offered the opportunity for early graduation from the academy. The only condition was that he had to report to training camp number 3 to take his graduation test.

-This is a unique opportunity, Yasuke," said the principal in a serious tone. What do you think about it?

The proposal took Yasuke by surprise. Despite his usual apathy and stoicism, the prospect of advancing so quickly through the academy ranks ignited a spark of excitement within him.

-It is a great honor, director. I will consider it carefully," Yasuke replied, trying to hide his excitement.

Determined to seek advice, Yasuke headed to the hospital to meet Nora. She had not only been a source of wisdom and guidance in his life but also deeply understood the challenges and rewards of the shinobi path.

Upon arriving at the hospital, Yasuke found Grandmother Nora, who greeted him with her usual mixture of sternness and affection.

-Grandmother Nora, I have been offered early graduation from the academy," said Yasuke, noticing the instant concern on Nora's face.

Grandma Nora frowned, clearly unhappy with the idea.

-"Early graduation? That brat Hiruzen... what does he think? What does he think he is? He thinks shinobi life is a game. Sending children to the battlefield before their time? -he muttered, clearly insulting the current Hokage with a mixture of concern and disdain.

Yasuke remained silent, knowing that Grandmother Nora had always been protective of "her children," as she used to call the youngsters of the village.

-Yasuke, I know this day would come, for you or any other child who walked through that door.

-But, grandmother, don't you think it might be a good opportunity? -she asked cautiously.

Grandmother Nora sighed deeply, her gaze softening as she settled on Yasuke.

-Yasuke, dear, this is a choice only you can make. The academy gives you much more than theory and basic techniques. It represents one of the few stages of calm in the life of a shinobi. You need not rush into the shinobi world; it is unforgiving and severe. However, if you feel that you are ready, then.... -he paused, choosing his words carefully, "I will trust your judgment.

-I understand, Grandmother Nora," Yasuke said, his voice reflecting gratitude and determination.

-The decision is yours, but remember, certain things, once accelerated, cannot be stopped.

-Thank you, Grandma Nora. I will think about this carefully," Yasuke replied, deeply appreciating Nora's advice and concern. But there is one thing I know: the sooner I start working in the field, the more lives I can save.

Hearing this, Nora softened her gaze and, hugging an unprepared Yasuke, whispered in his ear:

-Sometimes you act your age, sometimes like an adult, but always, even if you don't want to admit it, you think of the welfare of others. Remember, Yasuke, in this challenging world, sometimes you have to be selfish and prioritize yourself.

Yasuke, still in the trembling arms of the experienced shinobi, hesitated. According to him, she was not someone who naturally cared for others, often keeping herself aloof. He didn't quite understand what Grandmother Nora was trying to convey to him, but without wanting to delve too deeply into the subject, he could only be grateful for the advice.

-I understand, Grandmother Nora. Thank you," said Yasuke, in a tone of voice that reflected a mixture of gratitude and comfort that he himself failed to recognize.

This conversation left Yasuke with much to reflect on, not only about the possibility of graduating early, but also about the importance of valuing and enjoying every stage of his life, including those of tranquility.

That evening, after returning from the hospital, Yasuke had dinner with Nonoe and Minato. Minato, driven by curiosity, insisted on asking why he had been called, but seeing that Yasuke had no energy to argue, he decided to let it go for the first time.

That night, after dinner, Yasuke found himself unable to sleep, so he decided to take a walk, sneaking out through one of the orphanage windows. A discreet shadow followed him, but he was too deep in thought to notice. He reached the place where Nonoe and Minato had made him promise that engagement that now seemed so far away, and as he gazed up at the starry sky, a familiar voice interrupted his musings.

-Hey, Yasuke, escaping from bed? -exclaimed Minato, with his typical enthusiasm, approaching his friend.

-Something like that. Just... thinking," replied Yasuke, with a distant look towards the sky.

-Do you want to share? You always find a way to see the negative, but here I am to remind you of the positive side! -Minato said, sitting down next to him with a comforting smile.

With some reluctance, Yasuke told him about the early graduation offer and the doubts that plagued him, the pressure of making such a decision and how it could change his future significantly.

-Wow, that's huge, but think of the possibilities, of all the good things you can do! -Minato enthused, "You're amazing, Yasuke. If anyone can handle it, it's you.

-I don't know, Minato. What if I make a mistake? What if I'm not ready? -Yasuke's worries flowed, as dark as the night around them.

-Then you'll learn from them. We all make mistakes, but that doesn't mean we should let fear stop us. Besides, you won't be alone. We'll be there, supporting you, no matter what," Minato placed a hand on Yasuke's shoulder, his unwavering optimism shining under the starlight.

Yasuke looked at Minato, and for a moment, allowed his friend's optimistic vision to illuminate his doubts.

-But, hey, don't relax too much. Remember that before long, me and the others will catch up with you," Minato said, a mischievous grin on his face, hinting at their friendly rivalry.

Yasuke couldn't help but smile slightly at the comment.

-Yeah, right. As if a snotty fanboy could catch up with me," Yasuke replied, jumping into the game. His tone contained a tinge of joking that he rarely showed.

-Ah! That's what you think. You better get ready, because when I catch up to you, it'll be in a race to the top! -Minato replied with a competitive twinkle in his eye.

-Thank you, Minato. For this and for everything. It's good to know I have someone pushing me to be better," said Yasuke, feeling a renewed appreciation for his friend.

-Always, my friend. And remember, no matter how fast you graduate or how far you go, we'll be there, right behind you, pushing you and supporting you. And, eventually, challenging you," Minato extended his fist toward Yasuke, a broad smile lighting up his face under the silver glow of the moon.

Yasuke, moved by the gesture, extended his own fist, meeting Minato's in a firm, symbolic clash. In the moonlight, that simple gesture sealed their mutual pledge of support, defiance and camaraderie.

-Thank you, Minato. I really needed to hear that," he finally said, with a sigh of relief.

-Always, my friend! Remember, the world is a bright place if you know where to look. And now, let's get back before we get caught out of bed! -Minato stood up, pulling Yasuke with him.

The conversation with Minato offered Yasuke a new perspective, reminding him of the importance of hope and support in times of uncertainty.

With renewed determination, the next day, Yasuke prepared to bid farewell to his friends.

-Yasuke, be very careful, okay? -Nonoe said, her voice trembling with worry and nerves. She walked over to him and hugged him tightly. I wish you all the luck in the world.

-Thank you, Nonoe. I will," Yasuke replied, gently returning the hug.

Minato approached with his characteristic defiant smile, extending his fist towards Yasuke.

-And you, make sure you pass that test. And when you do, you owe me a meal, okay? I won't take no for an answer! -said Minato, between serious and playful.

Yasuke bumped his fist with Minato's, accepting the challenge.

-It's a deal. Get ready to eat, then," Yasuke replied, smiling at the gesture.

With good luck wishes from Nonoe and Minato, Yasuke set off for training ground number 3. As he arrived, his gaze met that of a silver-haired man, a face that looked familiar. It was the same one he had seen last time in the Hokage's office, someone whose presence commanded respect and curiosity.

This one had silver hair that fell elegantly in a long ponytail, glistening in the morning sun. His eyes, deep and serene, denoted experience and an unwavering calm. He wore the standard uniform of a Konoha shinobi, with the bandana tied tightly around his forehead, symbolizing his loyalty and status as a shinobi within the village, but there was a dignity about him that set him apart from the others. His upright posture and the way he held his sword behind his back suggested a mixture of nobility and strength, characteristics of an accomplished warrior.

-My name is Sakumo Hatake," he began, his voice clear and confident. -Among my tastes, I deeply value discipline and loyalty. My dislikes center on dishonor and betrayal. I dream of seeing Konoha flourish, growing stronger through the unity and honor of its shinobi. -He paused, watching Yasuke carefully. -I have been selected as your new sensei and will be responsible for overseeing your graduation test. I am here to challenge you, guide you and make sure you are prepared for what lies ahead.

To be continued...