Chapter 40 41 42 43 44 Hatake Tatsuya in Naruto (Patreon)

Tatsuya carried the hoe and made his way toward the forehead protector that had been spat out by the ninja dog. As he squinted for a brief moment, suddenly the protector collapsed with a single strike from the hoe still in his grasp, causing it to shatter into pieces in an instant.

"Tatsuya, you—" Jiraiya began, his voice trailing off in astonishment.

There were few occurrences in the world that could surprise Jiraiya to this degree. Yet, within just one month's time, Tatsuya managed to evoke more shock from him than in the entirety of his preceding years.

"Huh? This..." Tatsuya lifted a wisp of blood from the farmland's edge with the hoe. "The dogs found a few spies a moment ago, and I served them as lunch."

Similar to the insects of the Aburame family and the birds of the Uchiha clan, dogs were the summon creatures among some ninja families. Nonetheless, Tatsuya required no summons to engage in combat.

Though summoning jutsu was among the many techniques at his disposal, it was primarily utilized for mundane tasks rather than investigation or battle, serving more like a beast of burden.

"Is that the Gekko Family emblem?" Jiraiya inquired, his gaze fixated on the remnants of clothing clinging to the minced meat fragments.

Tatsuya's surprise was evident as he feigned ignorance, "You can't possibly mistake it, can you? How could the Gekko Family be involved in espionage upon a konoha war hero?"

The Gekko Family specialized in secret techniques that were adept at using the Transparent Escape Technique. They were adept at concealing their investigative activities and primarily operated within Anbu and the Ministry of Intelligence, departments overseen by Sarutobi Hiruzen and Shimura Danzō, respectively.

Consequently, the Gekko Family held a position of trust within the ranks of Konoha's shinobi, courtesy of their close association with Sarutobi Hiruzen.

"If you aren't a spy, how did you manage to clandestinely monitor me, the hero who brought victory to Konoha?" Tatsuya's calm smile was swiftly engulfed by the burning flames of Amaterasu, which consumed the remnants of evidence.

"By the way, I detected the presence of surveillance a week ago. Such a phantom figure is undoubtedly a spy. It couldn't have been dispatched by Lord Hokage, could it?" Tatsuya's tone was almost cheerful as he delivered this revelation.

Namikaze Minato, situated beside Jiraiya, found himself drenched in sweat, his anxiety palpable. A week ago? Wasn't that the second day he had been observing Tatsuya?

Glancing at the ninja dogs, their sides still stained with the scarlet hue of blood as they tilled the land with iron plows on their backs, a shiver crept down Namikaze Minato's spine. He realized that continuing the surveillance mission might well result in his own demise within the belly of one of these ninja dogs.

"A new disciple?" Tatsuya's attention shifted towards Namikaze Minato, standing beside Jiraiya, prompting him to deduce the newly formed relationship between the two.

Following a series of deep breaths, Jiraiya finally regained his composure, his voice resonating with a solemn depth. "Indeed, I took the initiative to poach him Sarutobi Sensei's anbu."

"Jiraiya, as Master Hokage's apprentice, and now Minato as well, this connection certainly possesses its intriguing aspects," Tatsuya mused before directing his focus back to his farmland, where he began loosening the soil in preparation for planting.

In truth, Tatsuya devoted much of his time to the study of kendo, regarding farming as a form of relaxation post-training.

...

...

Jiraiya and Namikaze Minato journeyed back to the village in silence. Upon reaching the village gate, a woman cradling a newborn caught their attention as she passed by, greeting them with a respectful nod.

"Ah, greetings, Lord Jiraiya," the woman offered in greeting.

Jiraiya was taken aback. "And who might you be..."

Spotting the Gekko Family crest adorning the woman's attire, Jiraiya's expression shifted through a range of emotions.

"Allow me to introduce myself. This is my son Gekko Hayate, the child of Azuki and myself, Gekko Hikaru."

The woman bowed slightly in the introduction.

"Ah, Azuki Gekko, if I recall correctly, he is the brother of the head of the Gekko Clan, correct?" Jiraiya's brow furrowed as he sought confirmation.

"Yes, my husband serves under Lord Hokage."

Hikaru's expression darkened, confusion tinging her voice. "However, I'm at a loss. He's been returning home quite late these past few days."

The mention of her husband stirred a sense of realization within Jiraiya, prompting him to connect the dots. " I apologize for any grievances I may have caused when I spoke in front of one of the Sannin. I must take my leave now to prepare dinner for Azuki."

Jiraiya: "..."

Namikaze Minato: "..."

As Hikaru departed with her son, Gekko Hayate, Jiraiya, and Namikaze Minato were left in contemplative silence.

After a prolonged pause, Namikaze Minato's voice quivered as he spoke, "Given that you, Azuki-san is the patriarch of the Moonlight Clan, this couldn't have been a recent development..."

"Enough, Minato!" Jiraiya's stern interruption halted his apprentice's speculations. His countenance paled, and he added, "Return home and rest. I have matters to attend to."

Namikaze Minato stood bewildered as he watched Jiraiya hasten away, the sympathy he felt for the mother and child weighing heavy on his heart.

If Tatsuya continued to be present until the birth of the child named "Gekko Hayate," perhaps a sense of relief would be afforded.

Truly, a close call; it seemed the reincarnation of a high-level character from the original storyline was nearly jeopardized. Those four guys from the Chunin Exams became unforgettable somehow.

Today, Sarutobi Hiruzen was seated in his usual spot in the Hokage's office. One hand twisted a long-pipped cigar, while the other perused intelligence documents received from the border region.

Following the official truce between Konoha and the Sand Shinobi, the Second Ninja World War had come to an end. This allowed him to finally release a sigh of relief. Though there lingered a tinge of regret regarding his eldest son's unfortunate incident, he couldn't help but wonder if it was genuinely an accident.

Lately, he found himself spending more and more time within the office. His eldest son's affairs had strained his relationship with his wife, Biwako, causing her to constantly wear an expression of disapproval. As for his second son, Asuma, he remained unaware of the underlying circumstances but exhibited a growing discord with his father.

The clamor of ministers and workers outside gradually subsided as they made their way home. Such was the current state of Sarutobi Hiruzen's thoughts. He felt a sense of relief that the war had ended; otherwise, it would have weighed heavily on his heart.

"Curious. Why is Gekko Azuki returning so late?" Sarutobi Hiruzen noticed the wall clock and furrowed his brows in mild concern.

Namikaze Minato had been accepted as a disciple by Jiraiya, leading him to temporarily resign from his Anbu position and his task of monitoring Tatsuya. Azuki, the brother of the head of the Gekko family and current Anbu squad captain, had been appointed by Namikaze Minato to replace him. Possessing secret techniques for evasion and excelling in covert investigations, the Gekko family had historically enjoyed Sarutobi Hiruzen's support.

This, in turn, allowed Sarutobi Hiruzen to consider Azuki, also known as Moon's Shadow, a trusted confidant. Nonetheless, a flaw existed in his capabilities—while his investigative prowess was formidable, his strength fell just shy of qualifying him for a captaincy.

To be honest, Sarutobi Hiruzen remained wary of individuals with excessive power. He harbored concerns that there might destabilize the balance, similar to Sakumo, who had succumbed to the consequences of wielding too much strength.

With a sudden bang, the door to the Hokage's office swung open, crashing against the wall and creating a startling noise. Even Sarutobi Hiruzen was caught off guard. Upon seeing the visitor, his graying eyebrows rose, and he questioned, "Jiraiya?"

"Waiting for Moon Shadow, Gekko Azuki?" Jiraiya's expression remained stoic, a stark contrast to his usual carefree demeanor. Such an unflappable visage from someone known for their constant cheerful countenance indicated his profound seriousness.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's brows knitted involuntarily, his mind racing to comprehend how Jiraiya had become aware of the situation. Yet, before he could pose the question, Jiraiya reached behind his back, produced an item, and flung it toward Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Reacting instinctively, Sarutobi Hiruzen caught the object and examined it closely. It was a tattered piece of the Anbu vest, stained with blood.

"Jiraiya, this...?" Sarutobi Hiruzen's gaze shifted from the bloodied fragment to Jiraiya, his expression a mix of puzzlement and concern.

Jiraiya's response was terse. "Leftovers from Tatsuya's Summon Dogs lunch."

Had Jiraiya only witnessed the gruesome scene earlier, his reaction might not have been so angry. His journey back to Konoha with Namikaze Minato had exposed him to the sight of the unaware widowed Gekko Hikaru and her newly born child, who was christened "Gekko Hayate" in memory of his late father.

Jiraiya, though usually characterized by his lighthearted demeanor, was not impervious to empathy. Witnessing the suffering experienced by Hikaru and her child deeply affected him, transcending his casual attitude.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes narrowed, and he comprehended the situation from Jiraiya's succinct explanation. "This is arrogance taken to an extreme."

From the corner of the room, Danzo interjected with a cold snort, his presence unnoticed until now. "Daring to kill an Anbu member! Sarutobi, it seems an arrest warrant must be issued."

Danzo's pervasive network allowed him to monitor Konoha around the clock. He had been informed of Jiraiya's visit to the administration building, which suggested that he had a high probability of uncovering the incident.

"I've had enough! Can't you refrain from internal disputes?" Jiraiya's anger, barely contained until now, erupted. "Instead of addressing the external threats, you're preoccupied with undermining each other."

Jiraiya's vehement outburst resonated with Danzo's indifference. "What do you imply, Jiraiya?"

Danzo's gaze remained unwavering, yet a glimmer of suspicion could be detected. "Could it be that Sarutobi Shinnosuke has no connection to Tatsuya whatsoever?"

"Or perhaps, are you implicated in this as well?" Danzo inquired further.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's expression turned stern as he intervened. "Enough, Danzo!"

Danzo's insinuation had been voiced aloud.

"I have my doubts too, you know?" Jiraiya's laughter, tinged with fury, echoed through the room. He turned to leave, dismissing the matter. "It's of no consequence; I leave it to your discretion."

Indeed, while Jiraiya had not divulged the depths of his feelings regarding Tatsuya and Sarutobi Shinnosuke, he found himself unable to ignore the innocent casualties resulting from their personal grievances. Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes held a mix of concern and suspicion as Jiraiya departed, his troubled thoughts lingering.

Unbeknownst to Jiraiya, Danzo's lingering suspicion extended even to him. Though Jiraiya had a placid disposition, he was by no means an easy target for manipulation.

Early the next morning, Sarutobi Hiruzen sat in his Hokage's office, his gaze fixed on a letter resting on his desk. He remained in contemplative silence for an extended period.

The letter was Jiraiya's doing—a message that conveyed his intention to embark on a journey with Namikaze Minato for spiritual training, a journey that had already begun. In essence, Jiraiya had seized the opportunity to take his apprentice and set out on an adventure, leaving his responsibilities behind.

Though Sarutobi Hiruzen could discern some of Jiraiya's motives, he refrained from displaying overt anger. The Hokage was not overly concerned about Namikaze Minato's departure from his watchful eye.

A gentle tap of Sarutobi Hiruzen's finger against the desk punctuated the room. Almost immediately, an Anbu operative kneeled before him, head bowed in deference.

"Master Hokage!"

"How is the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki?" Sarutobi Hiruzen inquired.

"Under our Anbu's constant surveillance, Master Hokage. If any signs of a rampage surface, they will intervene immediately," the Anbu operative responded, head still bowed.

Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded in satisfaction, his concerns momentarily appeased.

Sarutobi Hiruzen was well aware of the special relationship between Namikaze Minato and Uzumaki Kushina, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki. Holding her in his grasp was a means of keeping Namikaze Minato tethered to the village. The bond between them served as leverage, providing an assurance that Namikaze Minato's ventures would not jeopardize Konoha's interests.

As he pondered, a thought crossed his mind. "By the way, has Hikari made significant progress in mastering the Body Flicker Technique?"

He turned his attention to the Anbu operative before him, curious to know the status of Hikari's training.

"Yes, Master Hokage, she has indeed shown remarkable proficiency," the Anbu operative confirmed.

"Retrieve the sealing scrolls and deliver a message to Uzumaki Kushina on my behalf," Sarutobi Hiruzen instructed. With this, he entrusted the task of communication to the Anbu operative, opting to leave Namikaze Minato undisturbed for the time being.

...

...

On the outskirts of Konoha, adjacent to Tatsuya's humble farmhouse.

"Prepare for training."

Surrounded by his loyal ninja dogs, Tatsuya absorbed Jiraiya's words, his thoughts drifting toward the impending journey with Naruto. Little did he know, his father had already experienced a similar adventure.

Tsunade, who typically frequented the casino, stood beside Tatsuya, her eyes occasionally rubbing as if she hadn't quite woken up yet. Truthfully, she had barely slept for a couple of hours. Shortly after falling asleep, Jiraiya and Namikaze Minato arrived at her doorstep, presenting a predicament that had prompted her groggy state.

Tatsuya's audacious move, breaking up with her and then daring to mend fences, had left her baffled. She grudgingly observed his worshipful eyes, reminiscent of a young girl enamored with her crush. Tsunade couldn't help but regard him with a sense of disdain.

Could this guy really be so fixated?

"Master Tsunade, while Jiraiya and I embark on this training journey, would you mind looking after Kushina?" Namikaze Minato approached Tsunade, bowing respectfully.

Kushina held a unique status in Konoha due to her identity as the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki. Though the village remained unaware of this secret, the prominent clans harbored suspicions about her connection to the Nine-Tails. In light of this, Namikaze Minato wished to ensure Kushina's well-being during his absence.

Tsunade's connection to the Uzumaki clan, distant relatives of the Senju, made her a suitable candidate for this responsibility. Although the historical traditions of intermarriage between the Senju and Uzumaki had diminished over time, the ancestral ties persisted.

Tsunade's thoughts shifted to her past relationship with her and Kushina's grandmother, Uzumaki Mito. Their bond had been strong, but as circumstances shifted and the Senju clan faced adversity, Tsunade's availability waned. She recognized that the village executives would think twice before causing harm to someone of Kushina's stature.

"Minato!" A vibrant redhead, approximately fifteen years old and resembling Namikaze Minato's age, approached with cheerful energy.

"Kushina, settle down," Namikaze Minato urged, quickly placing himself between her and Tatsuya as a precautionary measure.

Observing Kushina's fiery hair and round face, Tatsuya's initial impression was straightforward: "Tomato."

Kushina's appearance, akin to a crimson flame, seemed to resonate with his instinctive reaction.

Namikaze Minato's prompt intervention managed to pacify Kushina, though her hair appeared to possess a life of its own as it flickered like flames.

Guiding her toward proper etiquette, Namikaze Minato introduced the individuals present. "This is Master Tatsuya and Master Tsunade, who will be overseeing matters during my absence. Please greet them."

Namikaze Minato's voice bore a hint of wryness, indicative of the challenges he faced in maintaining order amidst Kushina's fiery temper.

"Master Tsunade!" Kushina greeted Tsunade with reverence, her admiration evident. Turning her attention to Tatsuya, she struggled to suppress her lingering annoyance and managed a smile that was more strained than sincere. "Hello, Master Tatsuya."

The visitation of Uzumaki Naruto's mother left Tatsuya curiously studying her. His appraisal was cut short by a swift slap on his back, courtesy of Tsunade.

Caught off guard, Tatsuya turned to her, only to be met with a stern expression. "Admiring the view, were you?"

Tatsuya found himself speechless, met with Tsunade's jealous gaze. Was jealousy the reason behind this unexpected blow?

An awkward explanation emerged from Tatsuya, "It's just a misunderstanding..."

Tsunade's gaze remained fixed on him, her words unspoken yet palpable. "Don't let your thoughts wander."

It appeared Tatsuya had inadvertently triggered Tsunade's jealousy, evoking her protective instincts.

As he navigated the delicate situation, Tatsuya realized the complexity of the interpersonal dynamics surrounding him. Whether it was the budding connection between Namikaze Minato and Kushina, the unspoken tensions between himself and Tsunade, or his evolving journey within this world, these interwoven relationships formed the backdrop of his life in Konoha.

"Minato, by the way, Master Hokage asked me to deliver this to you," Kushina suddenly recalled, presenting a scroll to Namikaze Minato.

Before Namikaze Minato's departure, Anbu had instructed her to visit Tatsuya, who resided on the outskirts of the village to meet Minato. This was how Kushina had managed to locate him.

"Um?" Namikaze Minato accepted the scroll and slightly unfurled one end.

Jiraiya, standing beside him, leaned in to catch a glimpse.

As his eyes scanned the first line of text, Jiraiya's expression transformed abruptly, and he exclaimed, "This is the Flying Thunder God of the Second Hokage!"

Tsunade, who had been uninterested until now, raised her eyebrows upon hearing the phrase "Flying Thunder God."

Developed by her own great-grandfather, it was a technique closely tied to her heritage within the Senju clan.

Confirming that neither Tsunade nor Nawaki had inherited Wood Style, the elders had planned to pass on this technique to the siblings. However, this endeavor was cut short by their respective limitations; Tsunade was deemed unsuitable, while Nawaki lacked the necessary qualifications.

Tatsuya responded with a smile, "Seems like you've made a profitable deal, Third Generation."

Understanding dawned upon him as to why Namikaze Minato had later chosen to harmoniously share power with Sarutobi Hiruzen. This decision was likely influenced by Namikaze Minato's affable disposition and humble origins, which must have engendered kindness from Sarutobi Hiruzen during his upbringing.

"Flying Thunder God, though classified as a B-level ninjutsu, possesses S-level potential in the hands of a skilled user," Tsunade commented, her gaze distant. Addressing Namikaze Minato, she added, "This prestigious technique has been bestowed upon you, young one."

As part of the Konaha establishment initiative championed by Senju Tobirama, various clans contributed their secret techniques to the village's knowledge base. Distinguished service rendered to the village granted the privilege of learning advanced ninjutsu. This initiative aimed to provide civilian ninjas an avenue for advancement.

Unlike techniques such as Uchiha's Great Fireball, which were accessible to Konoha Shinobi through the merit system, an S-rank mission or some great merit or exchange of new ninjutsu was a prerequisite for learning advanced techniques like the Flying Thunder God.

Sarutobi Hiruzen had directly entrusted this profound technique to Namikaze Minato, a decision that carried significant implications.

"Hokage-sama has entrusted me with such a formidable ninjutsu," Namikaze Minato expressed his elation. The gravity of receiving the signature technique of the Second Hokage left him both grateful and excited. At a mere fourteen years old, he hadn't anticipated such a remarkable opportunity.

Jiraiya, standing beside him, sighed, uncertain of the implications. His intention in guiding Namikaze Minato away from Konoha was to shield him from the village's intricate political web.

However, he now realized that as long as Namikaze Minato stood as a potential Hokage candidate, he would inevitably be drawn into political disputes.

As Kushina bid farewell to Namikaze Minato, the two figures gradually receded into the distance until they vanished from view.

Tsunade turned her gaze to Tatsuya, her curiosity piqued. "Aren't you worried? The old man clearly intends to groom that kid."

Tatsuya responded with a smile, "Him? Let's discuss it after a hundred years of practice."

For Tatsuya, empowered by the system, even the Flying Thunder God or Namikaze Minato's Nine-Tails mode posed no threat. Infront of real Monsters in this world Minato is just a fire fly.

Tatsuya continued, addressing Tsunade's misconception. "Moreover, you seem to have misunderstood something. While I did eliminate Sarutobi Shinnosuke, I harbor no interest in the authority wielded by Sarutobi Hiruzen. As long as they do not disturb me, I am indifferent to Konoha's internal affairs."

Kushina, who had returned briefly to bid farewell to Namikaze Minato, overheard these words, her round face turning pale with shock.

What shocking revelation had she just stumbled upon? Her thoughts raced as she attempted to dismiss them as auditory hallucinations. Yes, it must be a figment of her imagination, she reassured herself.

However, when Tatsuya's discourse continued with the phrase "I am indifferent to Konoha's internal affairs," Tsunade's expression became complex. Despite her lack of attachment to Sarutobi Hiruzen, her sentiment for Konoha remained unwavering.

This sentiment remained steadfast even as she entered her fifties in the original timeline. Tsunade's return to the village as the Fifth Hokage had been spurred by two motives: to witness Nawaki's legacy in Naruto and her deep-rooted affection for Konoha.

Observing Tsunade's mixed emotions, Tatsuya interrupted his meditation, rising to embrace her gently. "What's wrong? Longing for the Hokage's seat? If you wish, I can help you reclaim it."

Tatsuya's words induced a potent atmosphere of lovey-dovey couple causing Kushina to tactfully withdraw from the scene.

Tatsuya continued, "But if we're going to do this, we should commit fully. Address each issue head-on, one by one."

He contemplated another aspect of this endeavor. If he were to assist Tsunade in ascending to the Hokage's position, he aimed to avoid the scenario where both of them featured prominently, as seen during Namikaze Minato's reign.

Tatsuya's thoughts coalesced, resulting in him remembering the future again.

When facing significant decisions, much like Tsunade in the original story,  Both Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura prove to be persistently bothersome, akin to pesky flies.

If you're going to undertake a task, commit to it wholeheartedly.

"…You desire me."

With a slight exhalation, Tsunade uttered these two words. Inwardly sighing, Tatsuya proceeded to lift Tsunade into the cabin.

After the conclusion of the second Ninja War as depicted in the original book, Tsunade departed from Konoha entirely.

Now, due to the storm triggered by the butterfly effect caused by Tatsuya. Nawaki's demise has been averted; however, the Senju clan's recovery is foreseen to span decades. Nevertheless, there is solace in the fact that he still lives.

Furthermore, this turn of events has a bearing on Tsunade's association with Tatsuya. Consequently, Tsunade's departure from Konoha was averted.

In the original narrative, Kakashi, renowned for being the fastest graduate in the history of the ninja school, continues his studies at the ninja academy.

His daily interactions and camaraderie with Uchiha Obito resemble an alternate reality version of the relationship between Uchiha Sasuke and Uzumaki Naruto.

Also, a notable presence is Nohara Lin, a young aspirant targeting the realm of medical ninjutsu comparable to Tsunade.

I harbor a strong inclination towards Tsunade, remaining closely attuned to her character.

Since the culmination of the Second Ninja World War, it can be asserted that none of the female ninjas within Konoha Village have harbored bad intentions against Tsunade. But admired her to a very great extent.

Furthermore, Tsunade frequently spends her evenings with Tatsuya.

Consequently, even though Tatsuya and this original storyline may not be overtly conspicuous, they have catalyzed a transformative shift in the path of the ninja world.

Numerous intricate connections intertwine within this narrative.

"Kindly procure a bottle of soju and some chicken meatballs for me."

An entire day was devoted to the study of Tsunade's combat techniques, a subject Tatsuya engaged in personally. Upon concluding her training, Tsunade's first course of action is to enlistRin for errands.

"Of course, Master Tsunade."

Rin, a young and spirited individual, responded with a cheerful nod, then turned towards Tatsuya and inquired:

"Is there anything you require, Master Tatsuya?"

"Indeed, fetch me two packs of rubber; I exhausted my supply yesterday."

Tatsuya contemplated briefly before expressing,

"Packs?"

Rin, tilting her head, revealed her confusion, a natural response for a seven-year-old child.

"Silence, you rascal!"

Tsunade clenched her fist, a mix of shame and anger coursing through her. After being caught off guard by Tatsuya's casual remark, her face turned red, and she directed her frustration toward Rin, "What are you standing there for? Get moving!"

"Right away~" Rin responded obediently, promptly turning and dashing towards the village.

"Are you treating that girl as a servant?" Tatsuya swiftly changed the topic, hoping to divert Tsunade from causing any more trouble.

"Well, I've also been teaching her a lot of medical ninjutsu, consider it tuition," Tsunade retorted, her lips curling with a hint of defiance as she relaxed her clenched fist.

Tatsuya let out a soft chuckle and refrained from saying more. To be candid, in comparison to the two disciples featured in Tsunade's original tale,

Shizune was virtually nonexistent from start to finish. Sakura, who managed to deliver such a powerful punch to Kaguya.

Tatsuya found Rin's gentle nature to be more endearing.

There was a fleeting suspicion that when Sasuke and the young Sakura embarked on their missions, it might have been the latter who took the lead.

...

...

In Konoha Village, outside a store.

"I've obtained the Soju and chicken meatballs that Mr. Tsunade requested. Now, onto Tatsuya-sama's items."

Rin emerged from the store, carrying a shopping bag filled with shochu and chicken meatballs, her thoughts audible as she mumbled to herself. She still had Tatsuya's recent request fresh in her mind.

"Kakashi, you dimwit! Prepare to spar!"

"No, Obito! Today is the day Kakashi and I are set for a duel!"

Just as Rin contemplated the curious mention of "Rubber" by Tatsuya,

A sudden commotion seized her attention. She turned around to witness Kakashi, Obito, and Mighty Guy This trio was widely recognized throughout the school.

For reasons unbeknownst to her, these two rascals always seemed to pester Kakashi, the star student.

"Could you give it a rest? You can't even master Clone Technique, let alone challenge me, dead last."

Kakashi gave Obito a disgusted look before casting an impatient glance at Might Guy, "As for you, Guy, I don't recall agreeing to any plans with you."

"Who's the dead last, huh!?"

Obito's protest was cut short as he noticed the enchanting gaze directed at him. Swiftly, he transformed into a bashful puppy, hurrying over to Rin, and addressing her with eagerness, "Oh, what a coincidence, Rin! What brings you here?"

Rin's smile radiated warmth. "I'm assisting Master Tsunade and Master Tatsuya with their shopping. However, I'm not sure where to find the items Master Tatsuya mentioned."

Such gentleness was exhibited equally towards the star student and the troublemaker.

It could be said that Rin's greatest charm lies in this aspect. Legend has it that her interaction with Obito and Kakashi resembled that of the seventh generation. Indeed, the young Kakashi and Obito bore striking similarities to Sasuke and Naruto.

However, the contrasts between Haruno Sakura and Lin Nohara were glaring.

"Huh? What are you buying? Leave it to me!"

As an eager puppy, Obito never missed an opportunity to impress the goddess.

"Well, it's this, I beseech you, Master Tatsuya needs..."

Under normal circumstances, Rin wouldn't want to burden others, but the unfamiliarity of the task compelled her to turn to Obito for guidance.

Upon hearing Rin's inquiry, Obito scratched his head. Regrettably, he remained clueless about the specifics. Yet, a certain look from the goddess spurred him into action.

No way!

He wouldn't allow himself to be embarrassed in front of the goddess!

"Hand it to me!"

Obito declared, spinning around, and rushing into a nearby bookstore. "Excuse me, do you happen to stock—"

"What are you up to?"

In the midst of this, Kakashi and Mighty Guy approached, both inquisitive.

"Oh, Kakashi, Guy."

Rin addressed them, "It's for this; Master Tatsuya requested it."

Kakashi's face instantly reddened at the word. Rin and Obito remained oblivious to the implications. However, Kakashi was all too familiar with the term "Rubber."

"Kakashi, do you know about it?"

Observing Kakashi's shifting expression, Rin inquired with curiosity.

"Well, I, uh..."

Kakashi struggled to find the right words. What was "Rubber," exactly?

"Obito, you pervert!!!"

A sudden shout from Kurenai resonated.

The trio turned their heads to witness Kurenai landing a resounding slap across Obito's face, sending him airborne.

Right behind Kurenai was Asuma as expected.