Upon Reiki's return with Morishita, Uchiha Kagami remained deep in thought, still reeling from his unexpected experience with Reiki's treatment.
"Teacher, are you all right?" Morishita asked, sensing the rare look of surprise on Kagami's face. This expression was unfamiliar to him, as Kagami was usually composed and reserved, even in the face of unusual circumstances.
"Yes, I'm fine." Kagami shook off his surprise, but his curiosity about Reiki grew. "Tell me everything you know about that boy."
Morishita nodded, recounting Reiki's background from the beginning. He explained how Reiki's presence had been entirely unremarkable up until just recently, when he became Tsunade's disciple and began showcasing impressive skills in medical ninjutsu. He mentioned Reiki's breakthroughs, his apparent bloodline abilities, and how he'd helped several prominent figures, including himself.
"Remarkable," Kagami murmured, the details filling in his assessment of Reiki's character. "To keep one's talents hidden until securing support… It takes someone patient, aware of the risks, and cautious of those who would exploit him."
Morishita nodded, understanding the gravity of Kagami's words. Reiki's approach showed rare restraint and understanding for a child his age, particularly in a village with as much internal intrigue as Konoha. Kagami's words made him realize just how calculated Reiki's moves had been.
"You're right," Morishita agreed, reflecting on the importance of Tsunade's mentorship in protecting Reiki. "With her influence, Reiki has been able to develop without interference from the higher-ups. Without it… well, Konoha doesn't hesitate to exploit talent when it appears."
"Indeed," Kagami replied, a faint smile forming. "And he's chosen the right person for that purpose. There's more to Reiki than meets the eye; I suspect he hasn't shown his full hand yet. He wanted me to know his abilities, yes, but he's left much still hidden."
Morishita hesitated, glancing at Kagami. "So what's the next move?"
Kagami's expression softened. "He's shown his willingness to support the Uchiha. I believe he has something planned beyond mere treatment, though I don't know what it is. I'll wait and support him if he continues on this path. It would seem wise to cultivate this connection with him."
With that, Kagami dismissed Morishita, who took his leave with new respect for both his teacher and Reiki. Alone, Kagami's thoughts shifted to the boy's character and how he might fit into Konoha's unfolding future.
---
Back at the Senju compound, Reiki reflected on the meeting with Kagami. He turned a small card in his hand, the reward he'd received for helping Uchiha Mirror: a *Mangekyo Sharingan Experience Card*.
The card would allow him to use the Mangekyo Sharingan's powers for a short time, a powerful tool and, potentially, a lifesaver. Knowing what each ability could do, Reiki considered how valuable it would be in an emergency. As he pondered, he was interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Still awake, Reiki?" Shisui's voice was calm yet concerned.
"Shisui? You're usually asleep by now. Something on your mind?" Reiki asked, noticing that Shisui seemed unusually focused.
"Yeah… actually, I've been feeling strange lately," Shisui replied hesitantly. "I fall asleep every time I refine my chakra at night. It's become a habit, but… I'm worried."
Reiki checked Shisui's body, but everything seemed normal. He looked at his friend, amused by the worry in Shisui's eyes. "It's normal to feel tired when you're refining chakra so frequently. You've just gotten used to training nonstop."
"Is that all?" Shisui asked, relieved but still cautious. "Then maybe I'm overthinking."
Reiki nodded, and as they settled in, Shisui brought up another topic. "Are you joining the Chunin Exams this year?"
"Chunin Exams?" Reiki echoed, surprised. "Is it happening now?"
"Yes," Shisui explained. "It's being held in Takigakure this year. I was planning on joining."
Intrigued, Nozuki, who had been refining her chakra nearby, opened her eyes and chimed in. "If it's in Takigakure, it must be a major event. Are you thinking of joining, Reiki?"
Reiki pondered, aware that participating would put him on the village radar, something he'd tried to avoid so far. But the potential challenges and exposure also intrigued him.
"Maybe," he said thoughtfully. "I suppose it could be a good test."
The three friends discussed the exam late into the night, weighing the risks and rewards. Unbeknownst to them, Reiki's recent meeting with Kagami and his ambitions for the future would soon place him in the very center of the storm gathering in Konoha.
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