Ch-58 Going on a new mission.

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...

After the pleasant exchange of small talk, everyone immersed themselves in the delights of a cozy barbecue party hosted by Michikatsu and generously sponsored by Kushina. The aroma of sizzling meat wafted through the air as laughter and camaraderie filled the restaurant.

As the evening progressed, Tsunade rose from her seat with a sigh, announcing, "Alright, everyone, I must bid farewell. I have another engagement to attend."

Nawaki, always the inquisitive one, couldn't help but inquire, "And what kind of event might that be?"

With a wry smile, Tsunade replied, "It's not a gathering for you kids; it's an adults-only affair."

Nawaki, well acquainted with his sister's proclivities, smirked and teased, "Ah, I see. Off to some more drinking and gambling, I assume?"

Tsunade's eyes narrowed as she playfully raised her clenched fist, warning, "You cheeky brat, it seems you've forgotten the taste of my fist."

Nawaki, taken aback, couldn't help but shiver a little. He retorted, "Whatever you do, just remember I won't be the one bailing you out of your gambling debts."

With a defiant huff, Tsunade replied, "Hmph! I hardly need your money. After all those high-ranking missions on the battlefield, I'm far from broke."

Unfazed, Nawaki smirked and countered, "I'd wager it won't take a week before you've drained your funds and come knocking for a loan."

Michikatsu chimed in with a knowing grin, "And in the end, whether it's you or the casinos themselves, someone will cover her debts. Why bother?"

Nawaki leaned in and disclosed, "The moment I returned to Konoha, I made it clear to all those gambling establishments and casinos. They can take all they want from her or the Hokage because they won't see a single penny from me. Besides, the entire Senju Clan's business is under my control, so she won't find any financial refuge."

"Yeah, I won't need your help," Tsunade scoffed, her pride evident in the tilt of her head. With an air of arrogance, she left the barbecue restaurant, her fiery determination burning like a wildfire in her eyes.

Observing her departure, Michikatsu, Nawaki, and Kushina shared knowing smiles. They were all too aware of Tsunade's penchant for losing at gambling, and it was only a matter of time before she'd come knocking, seeking financial relief.

Once Tsunade had disappeared from view, the trio decided to leave the barbecue joint as well, ready to embrace their own endeavors.

In the months that followed, Michikatsu focused on honing his skills. He trained diligently, often alongside his brother Kakashi. The two sparred intensely, their movements precise and calculated. Despite his dedication, Michikatsu had yet to embark on any official missions. His services were not in demand, and truth be told, he wasn't eager to set off on a mission just yet.

With Michikatsu abstaining from missions, Nawaki decided to take up a different role. He accepted an offer to become a guest teacher at the Ninja Academy. While sharing his wisdom with the next generation, Nawaki continued to refine his own abilities, a path of dual purpose that suited him well.

Then, the story took a turn six months later.

"Swoosh..." Kakashi lunged at Michikatsu, his fists and legs cloaked in crackling lightning, his movements a blur of incredible speed. Michikatsu stood his ground, not a wisp of chakra covering him. Kakashi's right fist rocketed towards him, only to be effortlessly intercepted by Michikatsu.

With remarkable precision, Michikatsu delivered a punch to Kakashi's stomach. But just before it landed, Kakashi's entire body became enveloped in a shield of crackling lightning. This electric armor absorbed the force of Michikatsu's blow, and Kakashi remained unharmed.

The impact of Michikatsu's attack sent Kakashi hurtling across the ground, his body skidding several meters before finally grinding to a dramatic halt. The crackling, electric sheen enveloping his form dissipated with the cessation of movement, leaving the field in eerie silence.

"I'm thrilled to see you maintaining 'Lightning Enhancement Mode' for approximately three minutes," Michikatsu praised, a glint of pride in his eyes. "In 'Lightning Enhancement Mode,' you're more than capable of taking on Special Jonins, and your raw strength has soared to rival that of an Elite Chunin."

Kakashi's gratitude shone through as he responded, "It's all thanks to your training, brother. But if I had focused solely on training instead of dividing my time at the ninja academy, I might've achieved even greater power."

Michikatsu's expression turned serious as he addressed his younger brother. "Kakashi, my gifted sibling, remember, you can't bite off more than you can chew. Pushing yourself beyond these limits might lead to rapid initial growth, but it could come at a dire cost down the line. You might face an incurable, dark disease. As your elder brother, I can't allow you to bear such a fate."

Placing a reassuring hand on Kakashi's shoulder, Michikatsu continued, "Promise me, my brother, you won't push yourself beyond these bounds, even if I'm not here in Konoha."

Kakashi nodded solemnly and replied, "I promise, brother."

With a warm smile, Michikatsu said, "Alright, let's head back. Mother must be waiting for us."

Kakashi collected his training equipment, preparing to follow Michikatsu. However, as they were about to leave, a Chunin ninja materialized before Michikatsu, bearing important news.

"Michikatsu Jonin, the Hokage has requested your presence. He has something of great significance to discuss with you."

Michikatsu nodded in acknowledgment and turned to Kakashi. "It seems I'm being called to a mission, just like Father."

Kakashi observed, "With the increased border tensions, it was bound to happen sooner or later. You're a Jonin of Konoha, after all."

Resigned to the call of duty, Michikatsu left with the Chunin ninja, heading toward the Hokage's office.

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