Chapter 141: Returning to School—Chūnin Prep Course

Compared to Ōnoki’s side, the Konoha camp was much more orderly. All injured shinobi were treated on the spot first. The lightly wounded were then sent back to the camp for further medical care. With Kyoichi’s shadow clones assisting, the pressure on the medical team wasn’t too heavy. However… Kyoichi could already imagine what it would feel like when the clones dispelled. When that time came, he’d probably have to sleep for an entire day. As he entered the camp, he saw Asuma, Obito, and a few other kids standing at the entrance, looking dejected and downcast. Kyoichi had no time to chat at the moment, so he ignored them for now and headed straight for the Third Hokage. When he arrived, he immediately understood why Asuma and the others were in such a mood— Hiruzen Sarutobi was counting the fallen shinobi. Although Kyoichi’s strategy had allowed Konoha to achieve a swift victory over the Iwa-nin, reducing casualties to some extent, war always meant death. It wasn’t just genin or chūnin—even jōnin were not spared. For instance, the Akimichi clan had lost two jōnin to the enemy’s focused attacks. This was war. Kyoichi remained silent, bowing deeply toward the fallen before stepping behind the Third Hokage. “Did Ōnoki say anything?” “He wants to take down the Third Raikage and hopes we’ll assist him.” Kyoichi replied simply. The Third Hokage didn’t answer immediately. He pondered for a while before asking, “How determined do you think he is?” “Probably very determined.” After thinking for a moment, Kyoichi added, “The Third Raikage is too strong. The Iwa-nin don’t stand a chance against him. And… I think he’s also worried about Kirin.” “We’ve been taking advantage of Ōnoki’s lack of countermeasures, but now that he understands how to deal with it, he shouldn’t be too afraid anymore…” The Third Hokage paused, then nodded, “That being said, Kumogakure does have many lightning-style specialists, and with the Third Raikage’s power, it’s understandable why Ōnoki is concerned.” “Mm…” Kyoichi nodded. He thought the same. Even if Ōnoki had found a way to counter Kirin, Kumogakure had plenty of lightning-style users. If they adjusted their strategy and developed techniques to complement Kirin, Iwa would still be at a disadvantage in a direct confrontation. Sёarch* The NôvelFire.nёt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. So… From Ōnoki’s perspective, the Third Raikage had to die! The Third Hokage thought for a long time. After much deliberation, he turned and said, “We should kill him! If we don’t eliminate the Raikage, they’ll recover their strength in a few years.” A shinobi strong enough could indeed hold up an entire village. Hanzo, the Third Raikage—they were prime examples. “Understood! Then you should send someone to inform Ōnoki before tonight. I need to get some rest.” “Go rest, I’ll handle things here.” The Third Hokage knew Kyoichi was exhausted. Right now, he might still be fine. But once his shadow clones dispelled and all the accumulated fatigue hit at once, even with the Senju physique, he wouldn’t be able to withstand it. “Take this sword back… I still prefer my Adamantine Staff.” “Yes!” Kyoichi took the Kiba blades, turned to leave the camp gate, intending to talk to Asuma and the others before heading to rest. However, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed someone hiding in a tree— Silver hair, a mask. The true successor of the White Fang. But… That awkward presence was still there. He didn’t pay it much mind and was about to walk away when Kakashi suddenly appeared in front of him with a Body Flicker. “Can I ask you a question?” “Go ahead.” Kyoichi was a little surprised but quickly composed himself. Kakashi hesitated for a moment before speaking, “How do you perfect kenjutsu?” “Different chakra nature transformations require different integration methods. I’m best at Wind Release sword techniques and Genjutsu-infused swordplay, followed by Water Release. As for Earth Release, I haven’t found a perfect method yet—maybe focusing on weight manipulation would help.” Kyoichi didn’t hold back. When it came to kenjutsu integration, he was undoubtedly an authority in Konoha. That Kakashi had started delving into kenjutsu was largely due to Kyoichi’s influence, so he was naturally willing to answer his questions. Besides, there was a reward in it for him… As for Earth Release swordplay, the best way to enhance it would naturally involve the Light-Weight and Heavy-Weight Rock techniques. Unfortunately— Konoha didn’t have any Earth Release techniques of that nature. Developing them from scratch was as difficult as inventing the Light-Weight and Heavy-Weight Rock techniques from nothing. Kakashi immediately understood that the Earth Release path was not an option for him. After thinking for a while, he continued, “With Lightning Release, I can make my sword induce paralysis, but it doesn’t feel perfect. Right now, it mostly stimulates my body’s activity to enhance taijutsu and kenjutsu…” As he spoke, he drew his sword and swung it. Zzzt zzzt… Lightning flickered along the blade, but it quickly dispersed. While it did enhance the sword’s power, the effect wasn’t ideal. “You’re not concentrating enough.” Kyoichi immediately saw the issue. Lightning chakra disperses easily, and though Kakashi was controlling it, his concentration wasn’t precise enough. Kakashi was confused. But— The next moment, he saw Kyoichi draw his sword. At first, there was no chakra on the blade. But in an instant, a highly condensed layer of Water Release chakra enveloped it. “This is Water Release kenjutsu. Its effect is…” Kyoichi swung his blade. A thin, high-pressure water edge extended from the sword, instantly carving a long, narrow cut into the ground. “Cutting?” Kakashi was shocked. This effect was almost on par with Wind Release’s cutting power. Water Release could do this? “Have you heard of the Third Raikage’s Hell Stab? It’s called the strongest spear. Its effect is actually just highly concentrated Lightning Release chakra. The same principle applies to sword techniques.” “I think… I understand now. Thank you for your guidance.” Kakashi bowed deeply. He knew that this way of thinking was even more valuable than just learning a jutsu. Hell Stab. A sword… Perhaps the two were interconnected. Concentration, concentration… He walked away, deep in thought. Kyoichi hadn’t directly taught him Chidori—it wasn’t suitable for Kakashi at this stage. It would be better to let him master Lightning Release concentration first. After Kakashi left, Kyoichi checked his system. The reward wasn’t much—mostly insights into Chidori from Kakashi’s understanding. Better than nothing. After all, he didn’t have Lightning Release chakra. No matter how strong Chidori was, it wouldn’t be a main attack method for him. His primary focus remained on Wind, Water, Ice, and Genjutsu-based sword techniques. His next research goal was the "weight" aspect of Earth Release. But… There was still so much to study. Hopefully, the war would end soon. Kyoichi sighed. Once war broke out, research became impossible. Even education had to be put on hold. The Third Raikage should just go die already. Kyoichi walked toward the camp entrance. Asuma and the others had already recovered from their depression. One by one, they were training in the nearby woods, brimming with energy. But… That was only because they had nothing else to do. Not just them. Kyoichi had taken special care of all Genin who had graduated within the past year, so most of them had survived. The majority of the casualties were older ninja. There was no helping it. Seeing that they were unharmed, Kyoichi returned to his tent, first sending a message to Tsunade. Then, he took a deep breath and prepared to receive the "judgment" from his Shadow Clones. As expected. After enduring the burden of an entire war, if Kyoichi hadn’t activated his Yin Seal and Strength of a Hundred Seal, he probably would’ve passed out immediately. So… Naruto was seriously insane! He collapsed onto his bed and fell asleep the instant he hit the mattress. By the time he woke up, it was already the next day— Looking outside, the sun was blazing high in the sky. The rain had cleared. Kyoichi squinted, his stomach growling, and pulled out a soldier pill to eat. "Kyoichi-sama, the Third Hokage requests your presence once you're awake." "Hm? Alright…" The one standing guard was Mukai. It seemed the Third Hokage had spoken with him as well. His chakra was much more restrained now, and Kyoichi could faintly sense sealing techniques on his body. So he had already learned the Four Symbols Seal. But… That was an S-rank sealing technique. Mastering it would take serious effort. "Keep at it. I know a thing or two about sealing techniques. If you run into any problems, you can ask me." Kyoichi spoke in a low voice. Mukai was secretly delighted. "Know a thing or two"? So modest… Considering Kyoichi had managed to seal a Jinchūriki, his reputation in sealing techniques was already well known. When Kyoichi met the Third Hokage, he discovered that there had been a slight change in plans— Ōnoki had offered five million ryō per person for Kyoichi and Minato to accompany him. This was essentially an S-rank mission—with a generous payout. "So… you sold us out?" "Ahem, what I mean is, you and Minato will head to Iwagakure while we handle the frontlines with hit-and-run tactics, maximizing their casualties without engaging Kumogakure in direct combat." The Third Hokage looked slightly guilty. Kyoichi had still been unconscious when he quietly accepted the mission on his behalf. That was a bit underhanded. But… Five million per person—ten million in total. It wasn’t exactly Konoha’s money, but they’d still spend it in Konoha, right? If you rounded up… It was still Konoha’s! "So, are you willing to go? If not, I’ll have Kōsuke figure something out and talk to Minato." "Of course… I’m in." Kyoichi didn’t hesitate. Five million… With Minato there, he could attack if needed and retreat if necessary. There was no real danger to his life. A risk-free deal! "When will you depart?" "Now. I’ll leave Asuma and the others in your care." "They won’t be needed anymore. I plan to send all ninja under twelve years old back to Konoha to rest. That includes them." Konoha was still strong. The Third Hokage had abolished the twelve-year-old graduation system, but during wartime, there had been no choice. Fighting one-on-one or one-on-three was indeed too much for them. But with only Kumogakure left as an enemy, there was no need for children to risk their lives. "That’s a good call." After thinking for a moment, Kyoichi added, "You should consider having them give lectures at the Academy when they return—maybe even hold an exchange event. Those who are lacking in theory can go back and study more." Especially Obito! That guy was practically a walking loophole in Konoha’s theoretical education. Now that things were settling down… Wasn’t this the perfect time for remedial lessons? The Third Hokage’s eyes lit up at the suggestion. He thought for a moment, then nodded repeatedly. "That makes sense. These kids only graduated early because of the war. Going back to continue their studies is completely reasonable. But… will they resist the idea?" "No need to worry. After the exchange event, have Mitokado Homura give them a lecture and call it a 'Chūnin Prep Course'—a special program to train them into proper Chūnin." Resist? Please. With all the methods from his past life, there was no way these kids would complain. The Third Hokage nodded continuously. A Chūnin Prep Course? Just the name made it irrefutable. And with Mitokado Homura’s prestige, he was the perfect person to handle this. Brilliant!