The Tale of an ordinary ninja

Akira's Estate Training Field

Akira stood in the middle of the training field behind his estate, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the area. Lady Mochizuki was standing nearby, her arms crossed and her usual authoritative expression softened slightly by a small smile.

"Akira," Lady Mochizuki began, her tone calm yet firm, "you've taken your first step into the academy. It's a significant milestone, but you need to remember, you only have four years before you graduate and take your place in the ninja world as a genin. During this time, you must push yourself beyond your limits."

Akira nodded attentively, waiting for her to continue.

"In the academy, you'll learn the basics of being a ninja," she said. "But that won't be enough. In the evenings, I'll train you in the Senju style Taijutsu. By the time you graduate, I'll ensure your Taijutsu skills rival those of a chunin. Additionally, I expect you at the Senju compound training grounds every morning before sunrise. There, I'll teach you Kenjutsu—my original style—and we'll also work on enhancing your Ninjutsu. Furthermore, I want you to master an additional elemental nature beyond your wind and water chakra. This will give you a significant advantage as a ninja."

Akira looked surprised. "But sensei," he said hesitantly, "I thought mastering a secondary element that I'm not predisposed to is something genin or chunin focus on. I'm still in the academy!"

Lady Mochizuki let out a small chuckle, her sharp eyes narrowing in amusement. "Akira," she began, "a true ninja always has something up their sleeve. If you rely solely on what you're predisposed to, your enemies will adapt and counter you easily. By learning a new element, you'll not only broaden your capabilities but also gain an edge when it matters most. Besides, the academy will eventually require you to learn the basics of a D-rank jutsu from an element you're not predisposed to. It's better you get a head start."

Akira tilted his head, intrigued. "Sensei, you also mentioned Kenjutsu. I didn't know you could use Kenjutsu," he said, recalling the information he had read in the bingo book. "I read your profile in the bingo book, but there wasn't any mention of it."

Lady Mochizuki's lips curved into a sly smile as she shook her head. "It's good that you're doing your research, Akira," she said, "but remember this—never trust the bingo book or any written intel completely. A ninja must always hide their true strength. Even if you reveal part of your abilities, never show your full hand. Always keep your opponent guessing."

Her expression turned serious as she knelt to Akira's level, ruffling his pink hair. "Yes, I am a master of a unique Kenjutsu style," she admitted. "It's a technique I developed myself after years of studying and mastering other styles. I'll teach you everything I know and help you develop your own unique sword style, one that reflects your strengths."

"Do you really think I can do that, sensei?" Akira asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity and doubt.

Lady Mochizuki gave him a firm yet encouraging nod. "I don't just think, Akira—I know. With dedication and effort, you'll become the strongest Kenjutsu user this world has ever seen. But," she added, standing up and placing her hands on her hips, "you must work hard every day. The physical exercises I've made you endure over the past two years were just the beginning. Starting tomorrow, your true training begins. Basic Kenjutsu, advanced Taijutsu, and Ninjutsu work will all be part of your daily routine. And don't forget your studies in the academy."

Akira nodded determinedly, his heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, sensei," he said earnestly.

"Good," Lady Mochizuki said with a satisfied smile. "Now, get some rest. Meet me at the Senju training grounds at 4:30 AM sharp tomorrow. Don't be late."

With that, she disappeared in a blur of motion, leaving Akira alone in the training field.

Akira's Thoughts

"Man," Akira muttered to himself, "I really need to learn that disappearing technique. It's so cool." Shaking his head, he refocused. "Alright, Akira. Tomorrow is the beginning of hellish training, but tonight…" He paused, a small grin spreading across his face. "I should visit Tsunade and ask her on a date."

The Senju Compound

As Akira wandered through the sprawling Senju compound, he marveled at the beautiful architecture and vibrant training fields. When he reached the training area near Tsunade's home, he spotted her practicing her punches against a wooden training post, her movements precise and powerful. Her blonde hair gleamed under the fading sunlight, and her focused expression was fierce.

Gathering his courage, Akira called out, "Tsunade!"

Tsunade paused mid-punch and turned to see Akira approaching. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a clean face towel, handing it to her.

"Here," he said with a grin. "You look like you've been working hard."

Tsunade smiled and accepted the towel. "Thanks, Akira," she said, wiping the sweat from her brow. "So, what brings you here?"

Akira scratched the back of his head, suddenly feeling a bit nervous. "I was wondering… are you done with your training for today?"

"Yeah, I just finished," Tsunade replied, raising an eyebrow. "Why do you ask?"

"Well," Akira began, his cheeks tinged pink, "I was wondering if… you'd like to go out with me tonight. You know, just the two of us. We could grab something to eat or take a walk."

Tsunade stared at him for a moment, then smirked. "Akira, are you asking me out on a date?"

Akira gulped but nodded firmly. "Yeah, I guess I am."

Tsunade chuckled, folding her arms. "Alright, why not? But you're paying."

Akira let out a laugh, relieved. "Deal! Let's go."

Akira and Tsunade's Evening Out

The sun had just begun to set, casting a warm golden hue over the Senju compound as Akira and Tsunade left the training grounds. Tsunade wore her usual training outfit, her hair tied neatly in two pigtails. Akira, still in his academy uniform, tried to keep his composure as they walked side by side toward the bustling village center.

Tsunade glanced at him out of the corner of her eye. "So, Akira," she teased, a smirk playing on her lips, "do you even know where we're going, or did you just make this up on the spot?"

Akira chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "I might have an idea or two," he replied. "There's a food stall near the academy that serves the best yakitori in the village. I figured we could grab something to eat there and maybe take a walk by the river afterward."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Yakitori, huh? I guess that's a safe choice. Alright, lead the way."

The Food Stall

The village was alive with activity as vendors called out to passersby, children played in the streets, and groups of shinobi shared conversations at small tea shops. Akira and Tsunade made their way through the lively crowd until they reached a cozy food stall with the delicious aroma of grilled meat wafting through the air.

"Welcome!" the cheerful vendor greeted as they approached. "Take a seat anywhere!"

They settled onto stools at the counter, and Akira quickly ordered a plate of yakitori skewers and two glasses of iced tea.

As they waited for their food, Tsunade leaned back slightly, her elbows resting on the counter. "So," she began, "why the sudden idea to ask me out? What's this about, Akira?"

Akira hesitated, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Well… I just thought it would be nice to spend some time with you outside of training and sparring. We've been friends for a while now, and I figured we deserved a break. Plus, with all the academy work and my training with Lady Mochizuki, I thought this might be a good way to relax."

Tsunade tilted her head, considering his words. "Fair enough," she said with a small smile. "I guess it's not a bad idea to take a break every once in a while. But don't think you're off the hook in training tomorrow—I'm not going easy on you."

Akira laughed. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

Their food arrived shortly after, the skewers sizzling hot and perfectly seasoned. They both dug in, the delicious flavors quickly breaking the ice and allowing them to chat more freely.

"So," Akira said between bites, "I've been meaning to ask—what made you want to train so hard all the time? I mean, you're already really strong. It's almost like you're trying to prove something."

Tsunade paused, her expression growing more serious. She set down her skewer and stared at the table for a moment. "I guess… I just want to live up to the Senju name," she admitted. "My grandfather, Hashirama, was the First Hokage. My great-uncle, Tobirama, was the Second. They were both incredible shinobi who shaped this village. And my father, Hanaku, is the clan leader. Everyone expects so much from me because of them. I don't want to let anyone down."

Akira nodded, sensing the weight behind her words. "That's a lot of pressure," he said gently. "But you know, Tsunade, you don't have to prove anything to anyone. You're already amazing in your own right. I think you're going to surpass everyone's expectations, not because of your family, but because of who you are."

Tsunade looked at him, her eyes softening. "Thanks, Akira," she said quietly. "That means a lot."

They finished their meal in companionable silence before thanking the vendor and heading out into the cool evening air.

A Walk by the River

The riverbank was serene, with the sound of flowing water blending harmoniously with the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The sky had turned a deep shade of indigo, and the first stars of the evening began to twinkle.

Akira and Tsunade strolled along the path by the river, their earlier conversation still lingering in the air.

"You know," Tsunade said, breaking the silence, "you're pretty different from the other kids at the academy."

Akira raised an eyebrow. "Different? How so?"

"Well," she said, folding her arms behind her head, "most of them are either super arrogant because they're from some big clan, or they're trying too hard to prove themselves because they're civilians. But you… you don't seem to care about all that. You're just… you."

Akira smiled. "I guess I've just learned not to let those things bother me. My dad always told me that your worth isn't determined by where you come from, but by what you do."

"That's a good mindset," Tsunade said, nodding thoughtfully. "Maybe I should try to think that way more often."

They stopped at a small wooden bridge overlooking the river, leaning against the railing as they gazed at the shimmering water below.

"You know," Akira said after a moment, "I'm really glad we became friends. You're one of the few people who really gets me."

Tsunade glanced at him, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Same here," she said. "You're not so bad, Akira. Just don't let it go to your head."

Akira laughed. "I wouldn't dream of it."

The two of them stayed there for a while, enjoying the peacefulness of the night and the easy companionship they shared. Though neither of them said it out loud, they both knew that their bond was growing stronger with each passing day—a friendship that would one day become the foundation for something far greater.