After the spar, Minato and Ryou sat across from each other by a small fire pit they had made, discussing their battle.
After hearing Ryou's explanation of Total Concentration Breathing, Minato leaned forward slightly, his expression thoughtful. "So, this technique you used is called Total Concentration Breathing? It's extraordinary. The way it enhanced your physical strength and reflexes to such an incredible level is impressive," he said.
Pausing for a moment, Minato added, "But considering it's purely physical skill and doesn't involve chakra, I don't think it would be suitable for most Ninja to learn."
Ryou nodded in agreement. The foundation of the Naruto world is built on chakra. Breathing techniques can be useful for Genin and Chunin-level Ninjas, but for Jonin, they wouldn't offer much of an advantage.
After a moment of silence, Minato spoke. "I don't know why, but I feel like I can share anything with you. There's this… strange sense of trust I have in you, Ryou. It's like no matter what, you wouldn't do anything to harm me or Kushina.
I don't know where this comes from, but ever since we met for the first time, I've felt this way. Hahaha." Minato chuckled.
Ryou smiled warmly. "I'm honored you feel that way, Minato-san."
"You're different, Ryou. There's a maturity in you that's beyond people of your age. It's as if you've seen more of the world. It's a strange feeling, and it's what makes me want to share my problems with you."
Minato sighed, leaning back against the tree behind him. "The Third Hokage recently told me that he plans to recommend me as the next Hokage to the Fire Daimyo. But I'm conflicted. I don't think I'm ready yet, and there are people more qualified than me. Nothing's decided yet, but the thought of it… It's pressuring."
Minato's expression grew serious as he continued. "If possible, I want to become the next Hokage and stop these endless wars. Our conflict with the Stone Village may have ended temporarily, but conflicts remain with the Cloud and Mist villages. The cycle of war feels endless and cruel, seeing the deaths of our close ones and the people of Konoha.
"What do you think, Ryou? Will I be able to do it?" He looked at Ryou and asked.
Hearing his words, Ryou was happy. Since Minato shared these worries with him, it means he really trusts him in his heart.
Ryou met his gaze, his voice firm and serious. "I think that if anyone in Konoha can bring about a peaceful future, it's you, Minato-san. You've already proven your worth. You're strong, compassionate, and deeply care for the people of Konoha.
And I'm sure you will become the Fourth Hokage. There's no doubt about it."
Minato chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "Your words give me a strange sense of confidence, but it's not that simple. There are other strong Hokage candidates like Orochimaru-sama, who are stronger and more brilliant than I in many aspects. I'm not sure I can compare."
Ryou's expression turned serious as he shared his thoughts. "Minato-san, Orochimaru-sama may be a genius, but he's not someone who can be controlled. He's ambitious. The Third Hokage knows this. He needs someone like you in the Hokage's seat."
Hearing his words, Minato's expression changed, feeling offended. "Ryou..."
Ryou interrupted. "I'm sorry, Minato-san. You may not like what I say, but it's the truth. I'm not saying Third Hokage is a bad person, but it's true he's getting old.
His friends—Danzo and the two elders—have held power for so long that their judgment is clouded.
Instead of prioritizing the village's good, they focus on their own interests. Even after you become Hokage, they won't make it easy for you to bring any changes."
"Enough, Ryou." Minato put an end to his words in a serious tone and stood abruptly, "Don't speak such words again!"
Ryou remained seated with a slight smile, his tone calm. "I know this isn't what you want to hear, Minato-san. But you'll see what I mean soon enough. Let's talk again after you become Hokage. I think that day isn't far off, maybe just a few days away."
Hearing his words, Minato stood still for a moment before his form disappeared from the spot, leaving Ryou alone.
Ryou knew Minato wasn't truly angry with him, with his Observation Haki, he could feel his emotions to some extent. It's just his sudden words confused Minato.
To Ryou, it didn't matter whether the Third Hokage was a good or bad person. From his perspective, if Minato truly wanted to bring about change, he needed to take control of Konoha, without the likes of Danzo trying to stir up trouble behind the scenes.
'It's fine. Let's take it slow,' Ryou thought, deciding to head back home to sleep.
--
Two days had passed,
During this time, aside from his routine training, Ryou focused on learning the Mystic Palm Technique and the two jutsu he had received as rewards from the Third Hokage.
The Mystic Palm Technique was relatively easy to master, thanks to his Kage-level chakra control. To master this skill, he practiced the technique on fish and animals for a day.
By the end of the second day, Ryou had mastered it to a level that he could treat wounds effectively. With further practice and experiment, he may even reach the level of healing his injuries without any seals.
On the morning of the third day, Ryou made his way to the Mission Assignment building near the Ninja Academy, called by Daichi-sensei. As he approached, he spotted Shisui and Tenga, who were waiting for him at the entrance.
"Ryou!" Tenga called out, waving his hand.
Shisui also greeted him and said, "Daichi-sensei has gone to get the mission scroll!"
"I'm excited for our first mission as Chunin! I'm hoping it's a B-rank where I can finally show off my strength." Tenga spoke as he slammed a fist into his palm.
Ryou chuckled and shook his head. "If it's a B-rank mission, we'll likely have to travel far, and it's bound to be dangerous."
"Good, you're all here," Daichi's figure appeared before them, with a scroll in hand.
"What's the mission, Daichi-sensei?" Tenga asked, curiosity evident in his voice.
"It's a B-rank mission, just as you hoped, Tenga. We've been tasked with retrieving intelligence reports from a ninja stationed near the Land of Water. This mission will be slightly dangerous as there's tension between Konoha and Kirigakure." Daichi described the mission details.
Tenga's face lit up with excitement. "Yes! Finally, a B-rank mission!"
****
Author's Notice:
I owe you all a big apology for the silence lately and the lack of updates. The truth is, I've been dealing with an unexpected medical emergency, my father has been facing some serious heart issues, and it's been non-stop hospital runs, tests, and trying to figure out the best treatment.
With everything happening, I haven't had the time or mental space to focus on writing. I feel terrible for disappearing mid-updates. This wasn't how I wanted things to go, but family comes first.
That said, things have settled slightly, and I've found a bit of time to write. I'll do my best to update whenever possible, but forgive me if there are any occasional pauses. Please bear with me a little longer.
I'll be back to regular updates as soon as I can.
Thank you so much for your patience, understanding, and support. I'm hoping for brighter days ahead.
****
I've re-released the same novel under a new title: "Into the World of Anime: Starting with Demon Slayer." In that version, I've removed the concept of Earth humans to keep it simple.
I'll be updating both versions side by side, but if possible, please consider adding the other one to your library and supporting it.