Konoha cat breeder

Chapter 105: Honorary Chūnin

"With the alliance with the Grass Village secured, we've managed to keep the threat from the Waterfall Village at bay for now. However, judging from Takigakure's actions, it's clear that Iwagakure is recovering from the raid by the Cloud ninjas. They've started extending their reach again. In the coming days, I expect a surge in missions in that direction."

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, drew deeply from his pipe, the relaxed demeanor he had shown earlier with the crystal ball now replaced by the commanding presence of the wise leader of Konoha.

"It's time to mobilize some of the other clans. They've been too quiet lately; it's time for them to contribute," Tsunade said bluntly as she seated herself casually.

Meanwhile, Tonari stood silently nearby, a thoughtful expression on his face.

"Tonari, you're dismissed," Hiruzen said. "You've done well on this mission. Lady Tsunade will ensure you receive your rewards."

Without a word, Tonari nodded and left the office.

"What's bothering him?" Hiruzen asked, watching the boy leave.

Tsunade sighed. "I think he's grappling with the reality of this world. Witnessing the darker, uglier side of life in Grass Village—it's a lot for anyone to process, especially someone his age. We've all had moments of doubt and disillusionment, haven't we?"

Hiruzen's expression softened. "True. This is a world that devours the weak. Even those of us in power can barely protect what's precious to us. That boy, however… He's sharp and resourceful—a good seedling. But it seems he'll need more of your guidance to ensure he grows strong and walks the right path. He could become one of Konoha's great protectors in the future, a pillar of strength.

"He's not the only one. Kushina and Minato—they all have the potential to shape Konoha's future. Our job now is to provide them with a stable environment to grow before we're too old to do so ourselves."

Tsunade nodded, recognizing the weight of his words.

Hiruzen's gaze turned stern, his voice steady but resolute. "It's time to recall Jiraiya. The current situation is too volatile. His presence will be an additional layer of security.

"The Sand and Rock Villages aren't our only concerns. Even the Cloud Village, despite our current alliance, shows signs of unrest.

"We need to remind the world of Konoha's strength, of the deep roots and mighty branches that protect our village. Some plans can no longer be delayed."

For a brief moment, the old Hokage's aura flared, radiating the confidence and resolve of the man once called the "Professor." It was enough to make even Tsunade feel a pang of nostalgia for her early days as a ninja.

Sarutobi Hiruzen, the indomitable shinobi, had not yet faded away.

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Tonari left the Hokage's office deep in thought.

This mission had stirred something within him.

His previous life as a struggling villager in the Land of Lightning had given him a glimpse of hardship, but his experiences in the Grass Village had shattered his assumptions.

Seeing Reika, a girl forced to sell her body and chakra just to survive, brought the grim realities of this world into sharp focus.

It wasn't just about the constant wars between the great nations. For the smaller nations caught in the crossfire, even the basic act of survival was a battle.

Reading about these struggles could never compare to experiencing them firsthand.

"Living to see another day," he thought, "isn't that already a luxury in this world?"

He clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. "I'm not a hero, and I don't need to save the world. All I need is to protect myself and the people I care about. That's enough for me."

Tsunade's earlier words echoed in his mind: "Protecting your comrades is the most important thing you can do. Even that, sometimes, is a luxury."

From that day forward, Tonari threw himself into his training with renewed intensity.

---

The year that followed was grueling but transformative.

Tonari divided his time between honing his combat skills, studying the scrolls provided by Orochimaru and Tsunade, and conducting experiments inspired by Orochimaru's insatiable curiosity for science.

Even Danzo, recognizing Tonari's potential, discreetly supplied him with additional scrolls, further expanding his repertoire.

Under this combined guidance, Tonari grew rapidly.

He wasn't the only one. Kushina and Minato were also making significant strides, standing out as rising stars among the younger generation.

Konoha's efforts to strengthen its next generation were paying off, especially with the growing tensions in the ninja world.

The Sand and Rock Villages continued to engage in skirmishes with Konoha, while smaller nations, backed by the great powers, waged proxy wars.

Despite these challenges, Tonari and his team—Uchiha Yoshinari and Nara Yoshino—excelled. Their teamwork had become seamless, and they consistently completed high-difficulty missions.

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By the end of the year, their accomplishments had not gone unnoticed.

Although still classified as Genin, their skills far surpassed that rank. Tonari, in particular, had demonstrated the combat prowess and strategic thinking of a seasoned Chūnin.

To address this discrepancy, Hiruzen Sarutobi introduced a new title: Honorary Chūnin.

This title acknowledged their abilities and allowed them to undertake more challenging missions without the need for a formal Chūnin exam.

Tonari, Kushina, and Minato were the first to receive this title.

It was a bold move by the Third Hokage, signaling his confidence in these young ninjas while sending a clear message to Konoha's allies and rivals:

The next generation of Leaf ninjas is already making their mark.

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(Chapter End)

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