Chapter 230 - Sarutobi is Satisfied and Distracts the Top Brass!

Due to the events surrounding Kato Dan, Reiki's attitude toward the Third Hokage had soured significantly. If not for Tsunade's desire to avoid conflict, Reiki might have taken more drastic measures. Now, with Asuma, the Third Hokage's son, asking about his training methods, Reiki shared them without hesitation. But what was his motive?

Shisui and Nozuki exchanged glances, puzzled by Reiki's openness. They both understood that such matters couldn't be discussed openly, especially not with Asuma present.

Asuma listened eagerly. "Then I'll keep at it. Reiki, can you sell me some of your potions?"

"Of course," Reiki replied with a smile. "I have ten bottles here; you can use them first. No need to pay me—just bring some medicinal ingredients next time, and we can trade directly without any handling fees."

Asuma was thrilled. "Thanks, Reiki! I can't believe I was ever at odds with you over small things. That was really childish of me. You're the best, Reiki!" With his gratitude pouring out, he bowed and left, cradling the potions.

Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows, a group of ANBU confronted Root Organization operatives monitoring Reiki.

"Hokage-sama has requested you leave this area," one ANBU member stated firmly.

The Root members exchanged glances, then withdrew. Satisfied, the ANBU team left as well.

---

In the Hokage's office, Asuma eagerly reported, "Father, these are the ingredients Reiki needs. He gifted me some of his body-strengthening potion, and he even said I can trade ingredients for more in the future. I understand why you gave me this mission now. Thank you, Hokage-sama!"

After Asuma left with his potion, Sarutobi Hiruzen allowed himself a rare smile, relieved by a moment of good news amidst the many recent challenges in the village.

Soon after, Ji Gu entered, presenting his report. "Hokage-sama, I observed Reiki's daily routine and confirmed his training regimen. He practices as he described, with only the potion-making sessions being restricted by a barrier."

Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded, pleased. He appreciated Reiki's cooperation; it showed a level of flexibility that he didn't often find in Tsunade. "Thank you, Ji Gu. You may begin training Asuma according to his own strengths."

After Ji Gu left, an ANBU member approached. "The Root Organization is still monitoring Reiki. Shall we give Danzo a warning?"

Sarutobi Hiruzen replied calmly, "Yes, but make it subtle. Danzo needs to understand he cannot push this too far."

---

Meanwhile, in Tsunade's courtyard, Nozuki turned to Reiki, unable to contain her confusion. "Reiki, what's your game here? You're giving the Hokage everything he wants. Don't you remember what he did to our teacher?"

Reiki's gaze was steady. "It's about redirecting the higher-ups' attention. Being watched constantly is exhausting."

Nozuki tilted her head. "So… you're doing this to gain the Hokage's trust?"

"Exactly," Reiki replied. "And it's also for Sensei. Lately, her work has been drawing too much attention. Rumors are even starting that she's aiming for the Hokage's seat."

Shisui frowned. "But the teacher doesn't care about that. She only wants to elevate the status of medical ninjas and protect the village's warriors."

"Precisely," Reiki nodded. "But her personality—her love of gambling and drinking—could easily become ammunition for her opponents. By playing along, I can take some pressure off her."

Nozuki and Shisui fell silent, realizing the depth of Reiki's strategy.

"Enough about me," Reiki said, shifting the topic. "What are your plans moving forward?"

Shisui thought for a moment. "I've started missions with ANBU, but the tasks assigned to me are… more than expected. They're putting me directly into pursuit missions, targeting chunin and special jonin."

Reiki raised an eyebrow. "It sounds like they're testing your abilities."

Nozuki chimed in, "I'm doing alright, but Shisui's assignments have been particularly challenging. If not for the potions you gave us, some missions would have been rough. And every time he returns, Hokage-sama calls him in for long discussions."

The three exchanged looks, each realizing the growing complexities of their situations. Though they didn't see each other frequently, their connection was growing stronger, and with it, their willingness to confide and strategize together.

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